Monarch and Royal Family Express Deep Condolences After Tragic Loss
The King and Queen have led heartfelt tributes to the victims of the horrific knife attack in Southport, which tragically left two children dead and six others in critical condition. The violent incident, which occurred near a Taylor Swift-themed yoga class, has left the community in shock.
Attack Details
Merseyside Police reported that a 17-year-old boy, from Banks in Lancashire and born in Cardiff, was arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder following the mass stabbing on Monday morning. The attack took place around 11:50 am at a property on Hart Street, Southport, located north of Liverpool. The police chief confirmed that, in addition to the two children who died, nine other children were injured, and two adults were also in critical condition.
Royal Tributes
The King expressed his profound shock at the “utterly horrific” incident, offering his deepest condolences to the families affected. He said: “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 Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Kate, also shared their sympathy, saying: “As parents, we cannot begin to imagine what the families, friends, and loved ones of those killed and injured in Southport today are going through. We send our love, thoughts, and prayers to all those involved in this horrid and heinous attack. Thank you also to the emergency responders who, despite being met with the most horrific scenes, demonstrated compassion and professionalism when your community needed you most.”
Government and Local Reactions
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed that “the whole country is deeply shocked” by the tragedy and extended his condolences to the victims and their families. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper also offered her support, saying, “The news from Southport is truly devastating. My heart goes out to all the families affected by this horrific incident and to the whole community.”
Local MP Patrick Hurley shared his own message of support, saying: “My thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and families of the horrific attack on Hart Street today. I am deeply saddened by the news that two children have been fatally injured. I hope for the swift and full recovery of all the other victims of this senseless attack.”
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have stated that the motive behind the attack remains unclear and that the incident is not being treated as terror-related. The identities of the deceased children have not yet been released, and the investigation continues. Meanwhile, all the victims, including those critically injured, are receiving treatment at hospitals in Liverpool and Manchester.
The community of Southport remains in mourning as it processes the shock of this violent and senseless attack.
