After three children were slain in a stabbing during a Swift-themed dance and yoga class in Southport, England, the 34-year-old pop artist posted on her Instagram Stories on July 30.
The Merseyside Police revealed that a 9-year-old girl, Swift’s third child, passed away soon after her statement. Early Tuesday morning, the girl passed away. The two youngsters who passed away on July 29 were 6 and 7, according to PEOPLE’s press release.
Swift added, “I’m in disbelief after yesterday’s Southport assault. The loss of life and innocence and the horrific pain victims, relatives, and first responders endured.”
“These were just little kids at a dance class,” she said. “I am at a complete loss for how to ever convey my sympathies to these families.”
Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy revealed two child fatalities in a news briefing on Monday. Eight more children were hurt and five are in serious condition, according to Tuesday’s press release. Two more individuals are critically hurt in the incident.
A 17-year-old Cardiff resident was detained for the stabbing, police said. Kennedy said during the news conference that he was arrested for murder and attempted murder.
Merseyside Police said they to a call on Hart Street at 11:50 a.m. local time and “detained a male and seized a knife.”
“At this early stage, enquiries are ongoing to establish the motive for this tragic incident and we would urge people not to speculate while the investigation is ongoing,” the police statement said. “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.”
The incident apparently occurred near Hart Place’s Swift-themed yoga and dance class. The Telegraph said the event was for 6–11-year-olds.
“We believe that the adults who were injured were bravely trying to protect the children who were being attacked,” he added.
“Horrendous and deeply shocking news emerging from Southport,” UK PM Keir Starmer said on X on Monday. All impacted parties are in my thoughts. I appreciate the police and emergency services’ quick reaction. I’m updated as events unfold.”
