The parents of six-year-old Bebe King, who was killed in the knife attack in Southport in July, have paid tribute to their “shining star” in an emotional message.
“On Monday, July 29, our world was shattered by the loss of our precious daughter, Bebe,” they said in a statement shared today.
‘Along with two other beautiful souls, Elsie and Alice, she was taken from us in an act of unimaginable violence that left our hearts broken beyond repair.
‘Our darling Bebe, just six years old, was full of joy, light and love, and will always remain in our hearts as the sweet, kind and spirited little girl we adored.’
The family thanked the community for its “outpouring of love and support” during an “unimaginably difficult time.”
‘From the pink lights illuminating Sefton and Liverpool, to the pink bows, flowers, balloons, cards and candles left in her memory, we have been overwhelmed by the kindness and compassion shown to our family.’
The family shared a photo of Bebe (center) as they released a touching tribute.
Bebe (right) was one of three girls stabbed to death in the horrific attack in Southport in July.
“Our beloved Bebe, just six years old, was full of joy, light and love, and will always remain in our hearts as the sweet, kind and spirited little girl we adored,” the family said in a statement today.
Community members arrive before a vigil to remember the victims on August 5.
“We want to acknowledge our oldest daughter, Genie, who witnessed the attack and managed to escape,” the statement continued.
“She has shown incredible strength and courage, and we are so proud of her. Her resilience is a testament to the love and bond she shared with her little sister, and we will continue to support her as we navigate this painful journey together as a family.
“Our thoughts are also with all those involved in this tragedy and with all those injured. We hope that they find strength and recover in the coming days.
‘To the children who witnessed this terrible event, we send our love and hope that they too can begin to heal, surrounded by the care and support of those who love them.
‘To the emergency services, who acted with such care and professionalism on that terrible day: thank you.
‘Their support has continued as they cared for our family with compassion and dedication, and we will always be grateful for the way they have helped us during this heartbreaking time.
‘To our community, friends and strangers who have shown us so much love: thank you. Your messages, your tributes and your presence have meant so much to us and have helped us find some comfort in our grief.
We are also thinking of the families of Elsie and Alice, who share this unimaginable loss, and we hold them close to our hearts.
“We are heartbroken, but we take comfort in knowing that everyone who knew Bebe loved her deeply. She will always be our star and we will carry her with us in everything we do.”
Bebe was one of three children who tragically died in Stockport on July 29.
Eight children and two adults were also seriously injured in the attack, including dance teacher Leanne Lucas, 35. All victims have since been discharged from hospital.
Suspect Axel Rudakubana, 17, from Lancashire, has been charged with the murder of the three boys and 10 counts of attempted murder.
Bebe King’s family thanked their community for their support.
Artist’s impression of Axel Rudakubana covering his face at Liverpool Crown Court on August 1
Community members, family and friends blow bubbles as people gather to mourn the victims of the harrowing knife attack by holding a vigil near Atkinson on August 5.
Three children were killed and ten people were injured during the attacks. A vigil was held for the victims on August 5 and the community gathered to support the grieving family.
This week, Bebe King’s grandfather spoke of his anguish over the loss of his little girl and revealed that the family had planned a wedding the day after the attack.
Michael Weston King, 62, wrote in a statement shared on social media: ‘As many, but not all, are aware, I take this moment to confirm that my granddaughter Bebe (the youngest daughter of my eldest son) was one of three young girls murdered in Southport last Monday.
‘An act of such significance and yet so futile is incomprehensible. We are helpless, but we have come together as a family, which was already very close, to support each other and, in particular, my son, my daughter-in-law and my other granddaughter.
‘Bebe was a very sweet and happy child. She loved life, especially music and theatre, and enjoyed the deep affection she felt from her family and friends.
‘Monday’s events were all the more poignant because we were gathering for my eldest daughter’s wedding, which was due to take place the following day – a joyous and beautiful family occasion.
‘The change from joy to despair in a matter of moments is profound.’
Mr Weston King told how the family had been comforted by messages of support from across the country and praised the police for their “great dignity”.
She added: “I would like to thank everyone who has sent me messages. Feeling the love and support of so many dear and close friends has been vital. They have been, have been and continue to be a great comfort.
The musician, who formed British country music duo My Darling Clementine and previously fronted alt-country band The Good Sons, addressed the horrific riots that erupted across the country in the wake of the attack.
He wrote: ‘I will not comment on what has happened in the country after the disaster, except to say that what we need is peace, love and understanding, and that is all we need. Nothing more.
“And to any of you who have been blessed with grandchildren, I simply say: enjoy every minute.”
The riots were sparked in part by misinformation about the suspect, now charged, involved in the July 29 attacks.
False claims that he was an Islamist asylum seeker were debunked when Judge Menary KC lifted his anonymity, citing the “idiotic riots” sweeping the country.
