Southport remembers the three girls killed in the dance class attack as the town marks two years since the tragedy.
Southport has marked the two-year anniversary of the attack on a Taylor Swift-themed dance class that resulted in the deaths of three girls. Bebe King, Elsie Dot Stancombe, and Alice Da Silva Aguiar were killed during the incident on July 29, 2024. Eight other children, along with dance teacher Leanne Lucas and businessman John Hayes, were physically injured in the assault. On the anniversary of the tragedy, a three-minute silence was held in Southport at 3:00 PM to honor those affected.
Members of the community were invited to participate in the silence from wherever they were, while the Sefton Council designated local spaces for reflection. The council encouraged the public to make donations to local causes rather than offering floral tributes. Following their deaths, foundations were established in memory of Alice, Bebe, and Elsie. Alice’s Wonder Dance Foundation aims to support young dancers, while Elsie’s legacy is supported through efforts to assist young people and children. Bebe’s Hive was launched to provide support for grieving children through creative sessions.
A public inquiry into the attack concluded that it could and should have been prevented if appropriate steps had been taken by agencies and the parents of the perpetrator. The findings, published earlier this year, examined the circumstances surrounding the incident and the wider failures involved. In an open letter to the community, Sefton Council stated that the anniversary provides an opportunity for residents to reflect on the lives of the girls and to support the survivors and their families.
