Two children tragically lost their lives on Monday during a mass stabbing incident at a dance school in Southport, U.K. The attack also left nine others wounded, including six children in critical condition. A 17-year-old male suspect has been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder, with a knife seized as evidence by the authorities.

Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy provided updates during a news conference, confirming that all the victims, both children, and adults, sustained stab wounds during the assault. The injured adults were believed to have been injured while trying to protect the children during the attack.

The royal family expressed their shock and sympathy following the horrific incident. King Charles III and Queen Camilla, as well as Prince William and his wife Catherine, expressed their deepest condolences and prayers for the victims and their families.

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the attack as "horrendous and deeply shocking," emphasizing his thoughts being with all those affected. The police were alerted to the incident at 11:47 a.m., with investigation efforts ongoing to determine the motive behind the attack.

The suspect, a 17-year-old male from Banks, living in proximity to Southport, is in police custody. Authorities confirmed that the incident is not being treated as terror-related, with no other suspects currently under investigation.

The children were attending a Taylor Swift-themed event when the attacker entered the dance school and initiated the deadly assault. Emergency services swiftly responded to the scene, with eight individuals transported to regional hospitals for treatment of stab injuries.

Alder Hey Children's Hospital declared a major incident and advised parents to bring children to the emergency room only if it was urgent. Eye-witnesses described the scene as harrowing, with one business owner mentioning the surreal and distressing aftermath resembling a horror movie.

As the investigation continues, the local community and authorities are left reeling from the tragic events that unfolded at the dance school in Southport on Monday.