Alice Dasilva Aguiar, 9, Bebe King, 6, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, 7, were tragically stabbed to death in Southport, Merseyside, on Monday.
In addition to the three fatalities, eight other children sustained stab wounds, with five in critical condition, along with two critically injured adults, according to police reports.
On Tuesday evening, hundreds gathered for a vigil outside the Atkinson arts venue in Southport, laying flowers and cards in remembrance, many in tears. This vigil was followed by a protest outside a local mosque, where far-right demonstrators clashed with police on St Luke’s Road.
According to Merseyside Police, a large group, reportedly supporters of the English Defence League, began throwing objects at the mosque around 7:45 p.m. Police donned helmets and riot gear as stones and bottles were hurled at them, causing damage to police vehicles and resulting in fires. One officer sustained a suspected broken nose amid the chaos.
A 17-year-old, whose name cannot be disclosed for legal reasons, is in custody charged with murder and attempted murder related to the incident at a Hart Street dance studio.
Assistant Chief Constable Alex Goss condemned the violence, stating: “It is appalling to witness such unrest in a community already mourning the loss of three young lives. The overwhelming support from the local community and beyond has been appreciated as families cope with their grief and care for those injured.
“Our officers and emergency services faced an extremely challenging situation and are now being attacked as they work to maintain order. Tonight’s unrest involves many individuals who do not belong to or care about the Merseyside community.
“Speculation about the 17-year-old suspect is fueling further violence and disorder. We have clarified that the suspect was born in the UK, and such speculation is unhelpful. Our focus remains on ensuring community safety and addressing criminal behavior.”
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