Taylor Swift says she is “completely in shock” after children attending a dance class inspired by her music were attacked in Southport.
Warning: This article contains descriptions some readers may find distressing.
Swift, 34, said in a post on Instagram: “The horror of yesterday’s attack in Southport is washing over me continuously and I’m just completely in shock…
Swift’s condolence message. Pic: Instagram/@Taylorswift
“The loss of life and innocence, and the horrendous trauma inflicted on everyone who was there, the families and first responders.
“These were just little kids at a dance class,” she added.
“I am at a complete loss for how to ever convey my sympathies to these families.”
Two children were killed and nine others injured – with six of those in a critical condition – in the “ferocious” attack at a Swift-themed dance class.
Social media posts promoting the event said the class was “open to children in Year 2 to Year 6”.
Two adults, who tried to protect the children in Monday’s attack, are also in a critical condition.
A 17-year-old boy from Banks in Lancashire, born in Cardiff, Wales, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder and remains in custody.
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Police have said that, although the motive for the attack is unclear, it is not believed to be terror-related.
Witnesses described the attack as “like a horror movie”, and others spoke of hearing “screaming” and seeing bleeding children running from the incident.