Riots erupt in Southport over death of 3 kids in mass stabbing at Swift-themed event; 50 officers injured

Violent clashes erupted on Tuesday (July 30) in a northern England town following a mass stabbing at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class that resulted in the deaths of three children.

UK police were out in full force on Wednesday (July 31) to stop a repeat of the overnight violence that saw many officers hurt. It is suspected that members of the far-right English Defence League (EDL) came from outside the area to the seaside town near Liverpool, causing hours of severe violence.

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Protesters clash with police; over 50 officers injured

About 100 protesters confronted police and set fires, causing thick smoke to fill the area, according to media reports. Over 50 police officers were injured, and four men were arrested after far-right riots in Southport.

Videos shared on social media seemed to show a police van on fire and protesters throwing objects at police, with a local mosque appearing to be the target.

"Officers who are deployed are currently dealing with criminal behaviour and violence, with bottles and wheelie bins being thrown at them," Merseyside Police said.

Shortly after a town centre vigil where hundreds gathered in silence to honour the victims and show support for those affected, violence erupted.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer pays tribute to victims

Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited the town earlier, stating the tragedy "touches a nerve" with the entire nation.

Watch |UK PM Starmer visits site of deadly child knife attack

Laying flowers among numerous wreaths, Starmer thanked the emergency workers who responded to the stabbing spree and said: "I came here to pay my respects to the victims and families who are going through raw pain and grief that most of us can't imagine -- I can't imagine, as a dad myself."

Nine-year-old Alice Dasilva Aguiar passed away in the hospital early Tuesday, according to police. Bebe King, aged six, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, aged seven, died on Monday.

Police stated that two injured adults had been trying to protect the children. Tributes have been paid to Leanne Lucas, a dance and yoga teacher, for her bravery.

Taylor Swift expresses shock and sympathy

US pop star Swift expressed her shock on Instagram, saying she was "completely in shock" over "the loss of life and innocence, and the horrendous trauma inflicted on everyone." She added, "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."

Teenager arrested in connection with stabbing incident

A teenager, who was taken into custody on charges of murder and attempted murder, is from the nearby village of Banks but originally comes from Cardiff, according to the police.

Authorities clarified that a name circulating on social media is "incorrect and we would urge people not to speculate on details of the incident while the investigation is ongoing."

Witnesses told UK media that the suspect arrived at the location in a taxi on Monday morning, wearing a mask.

The suspect was later apprehended by armed officers. They also confiscated a knife from him.

(With inputs from agencies)