SOUTHPORT, UK – A nightmare unfolded in Southport, near Liverpool, on Monday morning when a 17-year-old attacker armed with a knife injured 11 and fatally stabbed two children at a dance workshop themed around pop star Taylor Swift. The teenagers’ motive remains a mystery, and local authorities are currently not viewing the violent incident as terrorism-related.
The hooded attacker arrived at the venue, Hart Space, in a taxi around noon. Without warning, he began to assault children and adults who attempted to intervene, leaving consternation in his wake. Some of the wounded victims are fighting for their lives, according to Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy. Two adults- apparently injured attempting to protect the children- are in critical condition.
Kennedy expressed her shock at the scene of devastation that greeted her officers, who were responding to the harrowing, violence-marred scene. Nine suffered injuries, and tragically, two children were among the victims who lost their lives. Out of compassion, she refused to imagine the grief of the families dealing with the aftermath of this violent assault.
Eyewitnesses recounted the 17-year-old suspect arriving on the scene, wearing a black hood and launching a senseless attack on the children who were caught off guard. Collin Parry, a local merchant, likened the horrific incident to a frightening movie scene. Parents echoed his sentiments, expressing their shock and relief that their children escaped the onslaught relatively unscathed.
The Hart Space staff reported that the attack was brutal and utterly unexpected, leaving some to believe that it had been a car accident because of the immense amount of blood visible. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer reacted by describing the event as “deeply shocking” and “horrendous”.
The injured victims received prompt medical attention and were taken to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Aintree University Hospital, and Southport and Formby Hospital. A 17-year-old male suspect was taken into police custody in connection with the stabbing.