Two children have been confirmed dead with multiple in critical condition following a stabbing in Merseyside today (29 July).
A press conference this evening confirmed the deaths with nine other children injured and six in critical condition. Two adults are also in critical condition.
Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy added: “We believe that the adults who were injured were bravely trying to protect the children who were being attacked."
A major incident was declared this morning when a number of people were injured in a reported stabbing at a Taylor Swift-themed dance and yoga event in Southport, north of Liverpool.
A 17-year-old man from Banks, Lancashire, was arrested over the 'ferocious' attack and is being questioned on suspicion of murder and attempted murder.
Kennedy told reporters: “My officers were called to reports of a stabbing at 11.47 this morning at an address in Southport.
“When they arrived, they were shocked to find that multiple people, many of whom were children, had been subjected to a ferocious attack and had suffered serious injuries.
“It is understood the children were attending a Taylor Swift event at a dance school when the offender armed with a knife walked into the premises and started to attack the children inside."
Merseyside Police also said in its statement regarding the teenager's arrest: "At this early stage, enquiries are ongoing to establish the motive for this tragic incident and we would urge people not to speculate while the investigation is ongoing.
"We can also confirm that the incident is not currently being treated as terror-related and we are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident."
The Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, has offered his condolences to the victims of the attack in Southport, and their families and friends, saying 'the whole country is deeply shocked'.
He thanked the emergency services for responding to 'the most difficult of circumstances' today.
Kennedy concluded: "I would appeal to anyone who witnessed anything, or who has information that could help our investigation or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
"Anyone who has been affected by this incident, can contact our Victim Care Merseyside service for help and support.
Our hub of local, trained staff is here to provide free, emotional and practical support tailored to your needs.
"You can contact Victim Care Merseyside for help whether you have reported a crime to the police or not by calling Freephone 0808 175 3080 on weekdays between 8am and 6pm or request support online at any time at www.victimcaremerseyside.org."
Jess Battison