Alice Dasilva Aguiar, Bebe King, and Elsie Dot Stancombe. (Photograph by Merseyside Police).
Liverpool, UK (EPICSTORIAN )– An 18-year-old man has admitted to the brutal knife attack that claimed the lives of three young girls during a dance class in Southport last year.
Axel Rudakubana, from Lancashire, pleaded guilty at Liverpool Crown Court on Monday—the day his trial was set to commence—to the murders of Alice da Silva Aguiar, 9, Bebe King, 6, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, 7.
His chilling admission brings a grim conclusion to the harrowing case that sent shockwaves through the community.
Brutal Attack at The Hart Space
The tragic incident unfolded on July 29, 2024, at The Hart Space, a dance and wellness studio in Southport. Rudakubana unleashed a frenzied knife attack on a class of young dancers, leaving eight other children, aged 7 to 13, wounded. The carnage also left yoga instructor Leanne Lucas and businessman John Hayes injured.
Appearing in the dock, Rudakubana also pleaded guilty to 10 counts of attempted murder and possession of a kitchen knife. His demeanor remained impassive as he admitted to his crimes. The courtroom, though prepared for a lengthy trial, instead witnessed his swift confessions.
No Terrorism Link, But Disturbing Evidence Uncovered
While Merseyside Police confirmed the attack is not classified as terrorism, investigators discovered deeply troubling material in Rudakubana’s possession. He admitted to producing ricin, a deadly poison, and possessing an al-Qaeda training manual at his home in Banks, Lancashire.
Authorities have not disclosed whether these materials influenced his actions, but their presence raises serious concerns about his motivations and mindset.
Sentencing Scheduled, Families Absent from Courtroom
Presiding over the case, Mr Justice Goose set sentencing for Thursday, when Rudakubana will learn his fate. Despite the gravity of the proceedings, none of the victims’ families were in attendance—likely due to the expectation of a prolonged trial.
Also Read: UK Court Jails Nazi-obsessed Terrorist Who Stabbed Asylum Seeker in Chilling Knife Attack
