Taylor Swift posted an emotional message today after a knife attack at a dance class themed to her songs left two children dead and six others in critical condition.
A 17-year-old boy remains in custody charged with murder and attempted murder and is being questioned following the incident in Southport, Merseyside, on Monday.
The American singer wrote on Instagram today: ‘The horror of yesterday’s attack in Southport is still haunting me and I am in complete shock.
‘The loss of life and innocence, and the horrendous trauma inflicted on everyone who was there, the families and the first responders.
“They were just little kids in a dance class. I don’t know how to convey my condolences to these families.”
Taylor Swift performs during her Eras Tour at Wembley Stadium in London on June 22
Taylor Swift says she is ‘completely in shock’ after ‘horror’ of Southport knife attack
A woman leaves flowers near the scene in Southport this morning following yesterday’s incident.
Floral tributes near the scene of the incident in Southport today after two children were killed and nine injured
Nine children were injured in the stabbings, in addition to the two who died and two adults who remain in critical condition after trying to protect the youngsters.
Police left flowers and teddy bears at the scene today. One card with the message “Thinking of you” read: “Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected” and was signed: “Love, Southport”. Another read: “Fly high with the little angels”.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is expected to visit the city later today. Police have said that while the motive for the attack is unclear, it is not believed to be terrorism-related.
Witnesses to the incident described how the alleged attacker arrived at the dance studio in a taxi and left without paying.
Emergency services said the scene was “horrific” and “chaotic” when they arrived at the children’s club. All the victims are being treated in hospital.
Forensic officers in Southport, Merseyside, yesterday after the horrific stabbing incident
Police are in Southport today as they investigate the stabbing that left two children dead
Police said the suspect, who was born in Cardiff, is from the village of Banks, outside Southport, and detectives have cordoned off a road in the area.
Merseyside Police declared a major incident at the scene, with armed response vehicles, 13 ambulances and the fire service attending the scene where there were multiple casualties.
King Charles said he and Camilla were “deeply shocked” to learn of the incident, while Prince William and Kate described it as a “horrendous and appalling” attack.
The vacation club was announced to include a Swift-themed dance and yoga workshop, as well as bracelet making. A vigil for the victims is planned for tonight.
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