UK police to charge 17-year-old with murder over Southport child killings

UK police brace for more violence after knife attack on children sparks riots; suspect also charged with 10 counts of attempted murder

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Protestors remonstrate with police during the ‘Enough is Enough’ demonstration outside the entrance to 10 Downing Street in London on Wednesday, held in reaction the government’s response to the fatal stabbings of children in Southport. Photo: AFP

Published: 7:53am, 1 Aug 2024

Britain’s Crown Prosecution Service said on Wednesday it has authorised the police to charge the 17-year-old male who was in custody on suspicion for the death of three young girls in a knife attack in Southport, UK with three counts of murder and 10 counts of attempted murder.

UK police were deployed on Wednesday to prevent a repeat of overnight violence in which dozens of officers were injured, following the mass stabbing at a Taylor Swift-themed dance party that killed three children.

While no incidents were reported in Southport, near Liverpool, northwestern England, in the evening a tense demonstration over the government’s response to Monday’s knife rampage took place in London near Downing Street.

Bottles were thrown at police officers and several people were arrested at the rally, which saw many protesters wearing British flags over their shoulders.

People assemble at the start of the ‘Enough is Enough’ protest in Whitehall, London on Wednesday. Photo: PA Wire / dpa

Earlier, Merseyside Police chief Serena Kennedy said her force was “absolutely planning” for further possible disturbances in Southport following the deadly attack targeting children which prompted Tuesday evening’s clashes.