Three girls who were killed in a horrendous knife attack in Merseyside have been named by police.
Bebe King (6), Elsie Dot Stancombe (7) and Alice Dasilva Aguiar (9) were all fatally stabbed in the incident in Southport on Monday.
The three children were among 11 stabbed during a sustained knife attack while attending a Taylor Swift themed yoga and dance workshop at the dance studio in Hart Street.
In a tribute, Bebe King’s family said: “No words can describe the devastation that has hit our family as we try to deal with the loss of our little girl Bebe.”
The family of Alice Dasilva Aguiar added: “Keep smiling and dancing like you love to do our Princess, like we said before to you, you’re always our princess and no one would change that. Love from Your Hero Daddy and Mummy.”
A 17-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, remains in custody accused of murder and attempted murder following the incident.
Two children remain in critical care in hospital, although their condition is currently stable.
Two adults are also in a critical condition after being injured during the incident.
Sir Keir Starmer visited Southport on Tuesday and thanked emergency service workers.
The Prime Minister said the attack “touches a nerve” with the whole country.
Horrendous and deeply shocking news emerging from Southport. My thoughts are with all those affected.
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) July 29, 2024
I would like to thank the police and emergency services for their swift response.
I am being kept updated as the situation develops.
On Tuesday morning, flowers and teddies had been left at the police cordon on Hart Street by members of the public.
A spokesperson for Merseyside Police said: “Yesterday, officers arrested a 17-year-old male from Banks and he remains in police custody.
“A name has been shared on social media in connection with the suspect in the incident in Southport. This name is incorrect and we would urge people not to speculate on details of the incident while the investigation is ongoing.
“This incident is not currently being treated as terror-related and we are not looking for anyone else in connection with it.”
Their families, who are being supported by specialist officers, have issued photographs and have asked that their privacy is respected at this time.
