Taylor Swift has said she is “completely in shock” after three children were killed and seven people left in a critical condition following a knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance and yoga class in Southport. The attack took place on Monday morning at a workshop aimed at children aged six to 11.
In an Instagram post, Swift described the horror of the attack as “washing over me continuously”. She said: “The loss of life and innocence, and the horrendous trauma inflicted on everyone who was there, the families and first responders. These were just little kids at a dance class. I am at a complete loss for how to ever convey my sympathies to these families.”
Police reported that a 17-year-old boy entered the class armed with a knife and attacked children aged between six and 11. Three children—aged nine, seven and six—died, and eight others were injured, five critically. Two adults, believed to be the teachers, were also critically injured after trying to protect the children. The suspect has been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder.
In the wake of the tragedy, online fundraisers have been launched. One, set up by Taylor Swift fans through the Taylor Swift UK & EU Facebook group, has raised nearly £80,000 for the Alder Hey children’s charity. Cristina Jones, who helps run the group, said donations had come from around the world, aiming to ease the financial burden on the affected families and help with funeral costs. Jones said she was “really lovely” to see Swift share her statement, as it brings attention to the victims and shows they are in her thoughts.
The Prime Minister and King Charles have also issued statements expressing their shock and condolences. The King said he was “profoundly shocked” by the “utterly horrific incident”, while Sir Keir Starmer said the whole country was deeply shocked. Swift is currently on the European leg of her Eras tour and is due to perform in Warsaw before returning to the UK for shows at Wembley in August.
