King Charles and Queen Camilla say they have been “profoundly shocked” to hear of a horror mass stabbing where two children died. A knifeman entered a dance class and launched a frenzied attack in Southport, Merseyside, at around 11.50am today (July 29).
It has left six other children in a critical condition along with an additional two adults. Nine other children have also sustained injuries.
The youngsters had been taking part in a sold out Taylor Swift dance class in the town when the attack was launched. Merseyside Police has arrested a 17-year-old boy on suspicion of murder and attempted murder.
A fast-paced police investigation is now underway, with Ch Cons Serena Kennedy confirming there is no confirmed motive at this stage, but officers do not believe the attack was terror related.
The King's statement reads: “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 the loved ones of those who have so tragically lost their lives, and to all those affected by this truly appalling attack.”
North West Ambulance Service's Dave Kitchin said that paramedics treated 11 casualties and thanked the staff who worked to care for the victims.
Following the incident, Merseyside's Police and Crime Commissioner, Emily Spurrell, expressed her profound shock and heartbreak.
In a heartfelt statement, she wrote: “I cannot even imagine the untold pain and heartache they are facing. My thoughts are also with all those who suffered injuries and who have been affected by this harrowing incident”.
Spurrell conveyed the region's collective grief in the statement, in which she described the attack on “innocent, defenseless children” as “unthinkable and absolutely abhorrent”.
She continued: “These young people had their whole lives ahead of them and it is hard to find the words to convey our deep sadness.”
“Our region will be heartbroken that more young lives have been lost at the hands of violence and more have suffered serious injuries, and I share local people's deep concern and anguish.”