Three Children Killed in Stabbing Incident at U.K. Dance Class

Three children were killed and nine others injured, six critically, in a knife attack at a children’s dance workshop in northern England. Two adults were also critically injured while trying to protect the children at the Taylor Swift-themed event, according to Merseyside Police. The King and the prime minister expressed their condolences to the victims and their families.

A 17-year-old boy from Banks, Lancashire, was arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. Police said the motivation for the attack is “unclear,” but it is not being treated as terror-related. He will be questioned by detectives

Police declared a major incident after receiving emergency calls at 11:47 BST, during the first full week of the school summer holidays. Armed response vehicles, 13 ambulances, and the fire service rushed to the dance class, which was for children aged six to ten.

In a statement on X, the King said he and his wife were “profoundly shocked” and offered their “heartfelt condolences, prayers and deepest sympathies” to the families of those who lost their lives and to those affected by the attack. The Prince and Princess of Wales called the attack “horrid and heinous” and sent their “love, thoughts, and prayers” to those involved, thanking emergency responders for their compassion and professionalism.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the whole country was deeply shocked and offered thoughts and condolences to the victims and their families. He thanked the emergency services and Merseyside Police for their difficult work.

Southport FC canceled a pre-season friendly against Morecambe FC out of respect for the victims and opened their club lounge for support. Everton and Liverpool Football Clubs also offered condolences.