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This is an archive article published on July 29, 2024

17-year-old arrested after two children dead, nine injured England knife attack

Nine other children were injured, with six in critical condition, and two adults are also in a critical state.

England knife attack UK stabbings SouthportPolice secure the area, where a man has been detained and a knife has been seized after a number of people were injured in a reported stabbing, in Southport, Merseyside, England, Monday July 29, 2024. (James Speakman/PA via AP)

A 17-year-old has been arrested after a horrific knife attack in northwest England that left two children dead and several others critically injured at a Taylor Swift-themed event on Monday.

Nine other children were injured, with six in critical condition, and two adults are also in a critical state.

At approximately 11:50 AM local time(1050 GMT), police were called to a residential area in Southport, near Liverpool, where they found multiple victims suffering from stab wounds. Armed officers quickly apprehended a male suspect and seized a knife believed to be used in the attack. Merseyside Police have assured that there was no wider threat to the public.

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Merseyside Police confirmed that a 17-year-old male from Banks is arrested in connection with the stabbing and is currently in police custody and will be questioned about the incident.

The police further added that, at this preliminary stage, investigations are still underway to determine the motive behind this tragic event. The police urge the public to avoid speculation while the inquiry continues.

“We can also confirm that the incident is not currently being treated as terror-related and we are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident,” police said.

The North West Ambulance Service reported that eight individuals were treated for stab injuries and transported to various hospitals, including Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, which declared a major incident due to the high volume of patients. The hospital has advised parents to only bring children in for emergencies.

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Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his shock at the incident, labeling it “horrendous and deeply shocking.” He extended his thoughts to those affected and commended the police and emergency services for their rapid response. Starmer stated on social media, “I am being kept updated as the situation develops.”

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper also expressed her concern over the serious nature of the incident. “I am deeply concerned at the very serious incident in Southport,” Cooper said on X.

“All my thoughts are with the families & loved ones of those affected. I have spoken to the Merseyside Police & Crime Commissioner to convey full support to the police & thanks to the emergency services responding,” she added.

As investigations continue, Merseyside Police have established a secure perimeter around the site of the stabbings and are urging the public to avoid the area.

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