The teenager detained in connection with the Southport stabbings is described as an introvert who lived with his family in a nearby village. His family moved to the UK from Rwanda, initially settling in Cardiff before relocating to Merseyside about ten years ago.
Merseyside Police have reported that a third young girl, aged nine, passed away early Tuesday morning. The two other girls who died previously were aged six and seven.
In total, eight other children sustained injuries, with five of them, aged between six and eleven, in critical condition. Two adult women who tried to protect the children are also in critical condition.
Community Reactions
Former neighbors are deeply shocked and saddened by the news of the teenager’s arrest.
They remember the family as friendly and pleasant. As a young child, the boy participated in karate classes with his father under Sensei Chico Mbakwe, who recalls him as a typical energetic five-year-old.
Mbakwe mentioned that the boy’s father had fallen out with him over a black belt grading but later thanked him for pushing him to improve.
Life in Cardiff
The family lived in Cardiff’s St Mellons and Thornhill areas before moving to Southport in 2013. They were described as ordinary and hardworking, with the father working in Liverpool while the mother stayed at home.
Neighbors noted that the children were well-behaved and the family seemed to be adjusting well to their new life.
The Attack and Its Aftermath
The attack occurred at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class, where the alleged knifeman arrived in a taxi without paying and entered the community center through an open door.
Emergency services described the scene as horrific and chaotic. The motive remains unclear, but authorities do not believe it was terror-related.
Public and Official Reactions
King Charles and Camilla expressed their profound shock, while Prince William and Kate condemned the attack as heinous.
Taylor Swift also expressed her horror and sadness over the loss of life and the trauma inflicted.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and other officials visited the scene, laying flowers and meeting with first responders.
The Community’s Response
Southport MP Patrick Hurley emphasized the deep impact on the small town, calling for community support and healing. Chief Constable Serena Kennedy extended her heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families, acknowledging the bravery of the adults who tried to protect the children.
This tragedy has left a deep scar on the Southport community, with many grappling with the enormity of the events that unfolded.
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