Two children have died after a frenzied stabbing incident in Southport. Nine others have been injured and six children are in a critical condition.

That's according to Chief Constable Serena Kennedy who confirmed the update in a press conference this evening (July 29). Two adults who bravely tried to defend the children are also in a critical condition in hospital.

Some casualties were airlifted from the scene in Merseyside to Alder Hey Hospital, one of the top paediatric hospitals in the country, after a suspect walked into a sold out Taylor Swift-inspired dance class in Southport and knifed a series of children and adults.

A total of 13 ambulances were sent to the scene, as officials quickly declared it a major incident. Merseyside Police have confirmed a 17-year-old has been arrested on suspicion of murder. He was originally from Cardiff but living in Banks, near Southport.

Kennedy said the investigation is still in its early stages and the motivation is still "unclear", but she said at this time the investigation is not being treated as terror-related.

Huge cordons have remained around the Hart Space - a community hub where antenatal, postnatal and classes are held. One witness described the scene as something from a "horror movie".

The public have been urged not to speculate over the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The Prime Minister Keir Starmer has also offered his condolences to the victims of the attack, and their families and friends, saying “the whole country is deeply shocked”.

Starmer said it is "almost impossible" to imagine the grief those affected by the attack are going through. He went on to praise the emergency responders, thanking them for the "professionalism" they showed.

Det Serena Kennedy added: "I can't begin to imagine the pain the families are going through at this time and I send my heartfelt condolences to them."

She appealed to anyone who saw anything to get in touch with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.