Summary of the Story:
- Nine-year-old Alice Aguiar named as one of the victims in Southport attack.
- Attack during Taylor Swift-themed event at a dance school left three girls dead.
- Five other children and two adults critically injured.
- Merseyside Police urged against speculation and confirmed suspect’s identity details.
- Prime Minister Keir Starmer and King Charles III expressed shock and condolences.
The death toll in the Southport stabbing attack rose to three on Tuesday as tensions in the community remained high.
Southport stabbing attack: Here are the latest updates
The Southport stabbing attack claimed a third victim early on Tuesday morning, identified as nine-year-old Alice Aguiar.
Merseyside Police confirmed that Alice died in the hospital from her injuries sustained during the attack at a Taylor Swift-themed event at a dance school.
According to reports, the tragic incident, which occurred on Monday morning, initially resulted in the deaths of two other girls, aged six and seven, and left five other children and two adults critically injured.
Emergency services, including 13 ambulances and specialised resources, responded to the scene, declaring a “major incident” due to the scale of the attack.
Relative Carina Aguiar expressed her grief in an emotional tribute on social media, stating:
“Princess Alice. In this moment of great pain my soul hurts, my body hurts, my mind hurts. You were just an innocent child, a happy smiley girl with a bright life ahead of you which a despicable human being took away from you, without pity, for no reason.”
Merseyside Police emphasised that the suspect, a 17-year-old boy from Banks in Lancashire originally from Cardiff, was arrested at the scene and is currently being held on suspicion of murder and attempted murder.
Chief Constable Serena Kennedy clarified that the suspect’s identity had been inaccurately reported on social media, urging the public to refrain from speculation while the investigation is ongoing.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer and King Charles III both expressed their deep shock and condolences following the “truly awful” attack, acknowledging the profound impact on the community and the country as a whole.
Merseyside police prepare for unrest
In response to the attack, Merseyside Police have taken measures to prepare for potential unrest.
The police force has been actively working to manage community tensions and prevent any escalation of violence.
Chief Constable Serena Kennedy stated that the investigation is ongoing, with a focus on understanding the suspect’s motives, although it has been confirmed that the attack is not being treated as terror-related.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the tragedy, Merseyside Police continue to appeal for calm and cooperation.
They have urged anyone with information related to the incident to come forward and assist with the investigation.