Axel Rudakubana Charged with Murder of Three Girls in Southport Stabbing Attack

Aug 1, 2024, 10:22 AM

A tragic incident occurred in Southport, England, where three young girls were fatally stabbed during a Taylor Swift-themed dance and yoga class at The Hart Space community centre. The victims, identified as Bebe King (6), Elsie Dot Stancombe (7), and Alice Dasilva Aguiar (9), were among several others injured in the attack, including two adults. Seven people remain critically wounded. The 17-year-old suspect, Axel Rudakubana, has been charged with three counts of murder, ten counts of attempted murder, and possession of a bladed article. The attack, described as one of the worst assaults against children in decades, left the community in shock and mourning. Vigils were held, and tributes poured in for the victims. Violent clashes and protests erupted in the aftermath, with around 100 protesters battling police. Rudakubana, who was born in Cardiff to Rwandan parents, appeared in court where reporting restrictions on his identity were lifted. He is set to appear at Liverpool Crown Court.