The world was shocked this week when multiple children were stabbed at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in the United Kingdom. 

According to Newsweek, the tragedy unfolded on Monday in Southport, England, which is located roughly half an hour away from Liverpool.

Three children were killed another eight injured

Newsweek cited a law enforcement statement as saying that two girls, aged 6 and 7, died on Monday while a 9-year-old girl succumbed to her injuries the following day. Meanwhile, another eight children were left wounded.

The publication noted that Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy addressed the violence during a news conference.

"As a mum and a nana, I can't begin to imagine the pain and suffering that the families of the victims are going through at this moment in time, and I wish to send my heartfelt condolences to them," she was quoted as saying.

Hart Space Studios hosted the dance class, and one of its employees later spoke in a social media post of what had transpired.

"We are one big family at The Hart Space and this cuts deep," Katrina Marie stated. "There are absolutely no words to describe what's happened today and I'm praying for all families affected. Let's hold them all in our thoughts and please no more speculation until more information is released."

Police have not released information about suspect

Emily Spurrell serves as Merseyside police commissioner, and she announced that an arrest had been made but provided no details regarding the suspect.

Like everyone, I am deeply shocked and concerned about the major incident in #Southport this morning.

An arrest has been made and there is no wider risk to the public.

I would urge people to be careful about what they share online and not to speculate about this incident.… https://t.co/2I5DSy8e3U

— Merseyside's Police Commissioner Emily Spurrell (@MerseysidePCC) July 29, 2024

"Like everyone, I am deeply shocked and concerned about the major incident in [Southport] this morning," the official announced.

"An arrest has been made and there is no wider risk to the public. I would urge people to be careful about what they share online and not to speculate about this incident," she added. 

Swift "at a complete loss" over stabbing

The New York Post reported that for her part, Swift released a statement explaining that she is "completely in shock" over the attack.

"The horror of yesterday’s attack in Southport is washing over me continuously and I’m just completely in shock," the pop star wrote.

"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," she added.