Taylor Swift has issued a statement following the mass stabbing in Southport, saying the 'horror of the attack' is 'washing over her continuously'.
The shocking news broke yesterday that two children were killed at a Taylor Swift-themed dance and yoga workshop in the seaside town, with the knife attack also leaving nine children and two adults injured. A 17-year-old male remains in custody on suspicion of murder.
Addressing her 283 million followers on Instagram in response to the atrocity, Taylor wrote on a post shared via her Instagram story, 'The horror of yesterday's attack in Southport is washing over me continuously and I'm just completely in shock.'
'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.
'I am at a complete loss for how to ever convey my sympathies to these families.'
On Monday 29 July, police were called to the scene at The Hart Space on Hart Street at 11.55am, where a man had entered and began attacking people with a knife. Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy said officers were 'shocked' at the 'ferocious' attack which had unfolded. It is understood that six children remain in a critical condition, as well as two adults.
In the wake of the news, a JustGiving page has been established, titled, 'Swifties Fundraiser for Alder Hey Children's Charity'. To date, it has raised over £38,000.
'We are working with Alder Hey Children’s Hospital to help raise money for the families affected by the tragedy in Southport, and raising funeral funds for the two young Swifties who have tragically passed,' the page's description read.
'Every donation through this link goes directly to the verified charity below, which will in turn help make a difference to those impacted in a time of great sadness. Forever and always, thank you. Cristina & Holly - Taylor Swift UK & EU Facebook Group'.
Leanne Lucas has been named as the organiser of Monday's Taylor Swift-inspired workshop and is reportedly fighting for her life after trying to save the children.
Tributes have been flooding in for Leanne, with one local yoga page writing on Facebook alongside a photo of her, 'Please pray for Leanne. Leanne came on my training course in December. A beautiful young creative girl who was so passionate about helping children.'