Displaying items by tag: child victims remembered

A year after the tragic attack that claimed the lives of Bebe King (6), Elsie Dot Stancombe (7), and Alice da Silva Aguiar (9) during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport, the nation paused for a three-minute silence to remember the victims. On July 29, 2024, the girls were fatally attacked by 17-year-old Axel Rudakuban. The attack also injured ten others and left deep psychological scars on many. Rather than floral tributes at the site, residents were invited to place flowers in Southport Town Hall Gardens and support charitable causes created in the girls’ honour. Charities like Elsie’s Story, Bebe’s Hive, and Alice’s Wonderdance now serve as living legacies. Families and school staff have spoken of both immense grief and the outpouring of kindness that has followed. The Council and community leaders have provided safe, respectful spaces for mourning, reflection, and healing. Across Sefton and the wider region, flags were lowered as a mark of respect. Amid devastating loss, hope and love continue to shine through such acts of remembrance and compassion.