Two children killed, 11 injured in stabbing rampage at Taylor Swift dance event in United Kingdom

LONDON — Two kids were slain and 11 individuals were wounded in a knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed gathering at a dance academy in the United Kingdom, authorities stated.

The 11 harmed comprises nine kids — six of whom are in critical condition — and two grown-ups who are in critical condition, Merseyside police stated. It seems the grown-ups were attempting to shield the kids, authorities stated.

A 17-year-old male has been apprehended on suspicion of homicide and attempted homicide, authorities stated.

The occurrence isn’t being viewed as linked to terrorism and no other suspects are being pursued, authorities stated. A reason isn’t apparent, authorities added.

Officers arrived just before noon local time to reports of a stabbing at a residence on Hart Street in Southport, a coastal town about 20 miles north of Liverpool, according to Merseyside police.

Officers who reached the scene were surprised by the “intense” attack, authorities stated.

“Appalling and profoundly shocking updates emerging from Southport,” U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer wrote on social media. “My thoughts are with all those impacted. I would like to express gratitude to the authorities and emergency services for their prompt response. I am receiving updates as the situation progresses.”

The town of Southport is located in the county of Merseyside, in England’s northwest.