King Charles III has expressed deep sorrow following a mass stabbing that claimed the lives of two young girls and injured nine others at a Taylor Swift-themed dance workshop in Southport, UK.
In a heartfelt statement, the King shared, “My wife and I have been profoundly shocked to hear of the utterly horrific incident in Southport today. We send our most heartfelt condolences, prayers, and deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of those who have so tragically lost their lives, and to all those affected by this truly appalling attack.”
The tragic incident occurred just before noon in Southport, near Liverpool, when a hooded teenager armed with a knife arrived by taxi and began attacking the children and adults present. Authorities reported that the teenager indiscriminately targeted attendees, including adults who attempted to intervene.
Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy later confirmed the devastating toll: two children dead and nine others injured, with six children and two adults in critical condition. The adults were injured while courageously trying to protect the children from the attacker.
“Responding officers were shocked to find that multiple people, many of whom were children, had been subjected to a ferocious attack and had serious injuries,” Chief Constable Kennedy stated.
While the motive for the attack remains unclear, authorities have ruled out terrorism. The connection between the assailant and the victims is yet to be determined.
The injured have been transported to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Aintree University Hospital, and Southport and Formby Hospital, where they are receiving treatment. The current conditions of the victims have not been disclosed.