Taylor Swift has said she is "completely in shock" after the "horror" of the Southport stabbings.
The knife attack, which took place at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class on Monday, left two children dead. Nine other youngsters were injured in the stabbings, and two adults remain in a critical condition after attempting to protect the youngsters.
Now Taylor Swift has shared a message on social media, saying she was left in shock. She wrote: "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 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."
Her message comes as scores of Taylor Swift fans raise funds for funeral costs following the devastating event. More than £17,000 has already been collected for Alder Hey Children's Hospital, with plans to also gift friendship bracelets to those undergoing treatment. The Taylor Swift UK and EU Facebook group administrators are spearheading the fundraising efforts.
Meanwhile, a 17-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, remains in custody accused of murder and attempted murder following the incident in Hart Street, Southport, Merseyside Police said. Officers have said that, although the motive for the attack is unclear, it is not believed to be terror-related.
Some described the attack as "like a horror movie", and others spoke of hearing "screaming" and seeing children running from the incident. Emergency services said the scene was "horrific" and "chaotic" as they arrived at the children's club.
All the casualties are being treated in hospitals, including children's hospitals in Liverpool and Manchester.
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