Axel Rudakubana Charged with Murder of Three Girls in Taylor Swift-Themed Southport Attack

Aug 1, 2024, 10:22 AM

A 17-year-old boy, Axel Rudakubana, has been charged with three counts of murder and ten counts of attempted murder following a stabbing rampage at a Taylor Swift-themed dance and yoga class at The Hart Space community center in Southport, England. The attack, which occurred on July 29, resulted in the deaths of three young girls: Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine. Eight others were injured, with several still in critical condition. The incident has sparked widespread grief and led to vigils in memory of the victims. Rudakubana, born in Cardiff to Rwandan parents, appeared in Liverpool Crown Court where reporting restrictions on his identity were lifted. He has also been charged with possession of a bladed article, specifically a kitchen knife.