Daily Mail reported that a devastating knife attack occurred during a Taylor Swift-themed children's workshop in Southport, leaving one child dead and several others injured.
The incident, which took place at a dance and yoga session for children, resulted in multiple injuries and shocked the local community.
The attack unfolded at approximately 11:50 AM at a hypnobirthing center on Hart Street which was hosting a holiday club event themed around pop star Taylor Swift. The workshop was attended by about 25 children aged between six and 11.
Police and emergency services were quickly on the scene, including officers from Merseyside Police, who apprehended a suspect and seized a knife. A major incident was declared, prompting responses from multiple emergency teams.
Witnesses described a scene of chaos as children, bloodied and scared, ran from the building. One local shop owner given the initial impression of a road accident due to the presence of a blood-covered vehicle, only to soon realize the graver reality of the situation.
As the community reels, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described the stabbings as "horrendous and deeply shocking" and commended the quick response of emergency services. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper expressed her deep concern and extended heartfelt thoughts towards the victims' families.
North West Ambulance Service reported treating eight victims with stab injuries, who were subsequently transported to nearby hospitals, including Alder Hey Children's Hospital and Aintree University Hospital.
Barathan Varathan, a local business owner, provided a firsthand account of the aftermath. He described witnessing several injured children, aged around ten, rushing out from the nursery in a severe state. "They had been stabbed, everywhere. I hope they will be OK," Varathan recalled the harrowing sight.
Alder Hey Children's Hospital officially declared a major incident, indicating the severity of the situation and the strain placed on medical staff. The community was urged to only bring children to the Emergency Department if necessary.
Local MP Patrick Hurley voiced his concerns, reflecting the sentiments of a shaken community, and urged public restraint from speculation. Meanwhile, the Merseyside Police strongly advised people to avoid the area to facilitate the response efforts.
The extent of the horror was also noted by shop owners and witnesses on Hart Street, describing the scene as reminiscent of a "horror movie." Colin Parry, a body shop owner, spoke of the distressing scenes as parents arrived to find their children.
Sir Andy Marsh, Chief Constable at the College of Policing, expressed solidarity with all affected, highlighting the distressing nature of the incident. "My thoughts this afternoon are with everyone affected by the horrific and deeply distressing incident in Southport," he stated.
The aftermath saw an outpouring of support and a coordinated effort among local services. Merseyside's Police & Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell cautioned against spreading misinformation and urged for patience as the investigation continued. Local establishments, such as Southport Football Club, have offered their facilities to assist emergency response teams. This communal spirit underscores the gravity of the event and the community's resolve to overcome the tragedy.
