Taylor Swift posted an emotional message today after a knife attack at a dance class themed around her songs which left two children dead and six others critical.
A 17-year-old boy remains in custody accused of murder and attempted murder and is being questioned following the incident in Southport, Merseyside, on Monday.
Six of the children – aged between six and 11 – remain in a critical condition alongside two female adults who ‘bravely tried to protect them’.
The American singer wrote on Instagram today: ‘The horror of yesterday’s attack in Southport is washing over me continuously and I’m just completely in shock.
‘The loss of life and innocence, and the horrendous trauma inflicted on everyone who was there, the families, and first responders.
‘These were just little kids at a dance class. I am at a complete loss for how to ever convey my sympathies to these families.’
Nine children were injured in the stabbings, alongside the two who died and two adults who remain in a critical condition after attempting to protect the youngsters.
At the scene today, flowers and teddies were left by the police cordon. One message in a ‘Thinking Of You’ card said ‘thoughts and prayers’ are with those affected and was signed: ‘Love – Southport.’ Another said: ‘Fly high with angels little ones.’
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer could visit the town today. Police have said that, although the motive for the attack is unclear, it is not believed to be terror-related.
Witnesses to the incident spoke of how the alleged knifeman arrived at the dance studio in a taxi and got out without paying.
Emergency services said the scene was ‘horrific’ and ‘chaotic’ as they arrived at the children’s club. All the casualties are now being treated in hospitals.
Police said the suspect, who was born in Cardiff, is from the village of Banks, just outside Southport, and a road in the area was cordoned off by detectives.
Merseyside Police declared a major incident at the scene. with armed response vehicles, 13 ambulances and the fire service descending on the mass casualty scene.
King Charles said he and Camilla had been ‘profoundly shocked’ to hear of the incident, while Prince William and Kate described it as a ‘horrid and heinous’ attack.
The holiday club was advertised as including a dance and yoga workshop themed around Swift as well as bracelet making. A vigil for the victims is planned for tonight.