UK. Knife attack on children in Southport. Two dead, nine injured. Two adults also in hospital

The tragic attack took place on Monday in the unusually quiet town of Southport, where a witness reported seeing bloodied children running out of a community centre where dance and yoga classes were being held for children aged between six and 11.

Police initially said they were called to a property on Hart Street in the early morning hours to a report of a knife attack. They said they had detained a man and secured a knife. A police statement said there had been multiple reported victims, but did not provide any further details.

Before 7pm local time (8pm in Poland), officers called a press conference. Shocking information was given.

The knifeman – a 17-year-old living in the town of Bank near Southport – injured 13 people, including 11 children. Two children died, nine – as well as two adults – are in hospitals. The fight for the lives of the adults and six children continues. Doctors described their condition as critical. Three children have minor injuries.

According to the BBC, the adults apparently fought the attacker, trying to stop him and save the children.

Witnesses to the incident claim that the 17-year-old attacker showed up at the scene of the attack wearing a mask. He was supposed to arrive by taxi. He didn't pay for it and entered the community center.

Several witnesses quoted by the BBC said they heard a woman running out into the road screaming that her daughter had been stabbed. Another witness said about ten girls managed to get out of the centre without being harmed.

Emily Spurrell, the local police commissioner, said she was “deeply shocked” by the tragedy. “I can't imagine the unspeakable pain and heartbreak they are feeling right now,” she said, describing the families of the children who were killed. “My thoughts go out to those injured and others who have been affected by this attack,” she added. The attack on “innocent, defenceless children” is “completely unthinkable,” a “disgusting crime,” she said.

King Carlos III and Queen Camilla said in a statement that they were “deeply shocked” by the incident. “We convey our deepest condolences, prayers and deepest sympathy to the families and loved ones of those who tragically lost their lives and to all those affected by this abhorrent attack,” they added.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said in a brief statement that the crime was “almost unimaginable.” He said he was shocked by it, “as is the whole country.”

Prince William and Duchess Kate also issued a statement. “As parents, we cannot imagine what the families, friends and loved ones of those killed and injured in Southport are going through. We send our love, our thoughts and prayers to all those affected by this terrible and heinous attack,” we read. “We thank the emergency services who, despite the most horrific scenes, showed compassion and professionalism when the community needed them most,” they added.