3rd child dies after UK stabbing attack

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - A third young girl has succumbed to her injuries following Monday’s mass stabbing during a Taylor Swift-themed dance party in a nursery in Southport, a seaside town in North West England, police have confirmed on Tuesday.

The latest victim, a 9-year-old girl, succumbed to her injuries in the early hours of this morning. This follows the deaths of two other girls, aged 6 and 7, who died on Tuesday.

The incident, which has left the community in shock and mourning, also resulted in critical injuries to five other children and two adults, who are receiving intensive medical care.

The attacker, a 17-year-old male, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder.

He remains in police custody as investigations continue. The suspect, who was born in Cardiff to Rwandan parents, relocated to Southport in 2013.

Merseyside Police have said that a name circulating on social media linked to the suspect is incorrect.

They are urging the public to refrain from speculating on details while the investigation is still in progress.

King Charles and Queen Camilla say they have been "profoundly shocked" to hear of a tragic knife attack.

UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said on X on Monday that she is "deeply concerned at the very serious incident in Southport."

"All my thoughts are with the families & loved ones of those affected. I have spoken to the Merseyside Police & Crime Commissioner to convey full support to the police & thanks to the emergency services responding," she added.

The gravity of the situation has resonated widely, drawing reactions from notable figures, including international pop star Taylor Swift.

"The horror of yesterday's attack in Southport is washing over me continuously," she said.