HEARTBROKEN tributes have flooded in from News & Star readers in the aftermath of the deaths of three young girls after a knife attack in Southport.

Readers responded to the tragic news after the names of the three victims, Alice Dasilva Aguiar, 9, Bebe King, 6, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, 7, were released by police yesterday (July 30). 

They were all fatally stabbed whilst attending a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport, Merseyside, on Monday. 

Eight other children suffered stab wounds alongside two adults who were also critically injured. 

Taking to social media, Christine Small, said "Heaven has gained three beautiful angels", whilst sending "thoughts and prayers" to family, friends and emergency services who attended the incident. 

Linzi Stainton said: "Absolutely heartbreaking, my 4-year-old was at a dance academy on the same day, it really hits home." 

Drew Mea wrote: "Words fail me, I cannot possibly understand what the families are going through." 

Joan Myers said: "Very dangerous world, bless these little girls and the rest who are fighting for their lives." 

Readers also applauded the efforts of emergency services who attended the incident, including the Great North Air Ambulance Service and the North West Ambulance Service. 

Posting on her Instagram story, Taylor Swift herself, said: “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 the 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.”

Following a vigil for the lives lost, riots also broke out in the Merseyside town. 

The Prime Minister said rioters in Southport on Tuesday evening had “hijacked” a vigil for victims and would “feel the full force of the law”.

 

North West Ambulance Service said 39 people were treated, “all of which were police officers”.

Merseyside Police said eight officers suffered serious injuries including fractures, lacerations, a suspected broken nose and concussion.