Royals meet grieving families in Southport after three children were murdered in a knife attack

The Prince and Princess of Wales returned to Southport to face a community still reeling from one of the most disturbing crimes in recent memory. Their visit comes more than a year after a knife attack at a children’s dance class left three young girls dead and several others injured.

On 29 July 2024, a Taylor Swift-themed class turned into a nightmare when a man armed with a knife struck without warning. Nine-year-old Alice da Silva Aguiar, six-year-old Bebe King, and seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe were all killed in the brutal assault. Eight other children and two adults suffered injuries in the chaos. The attack shocked the nation, leaving families shattered and Southport marked by grief.

Prince William and Princess Catherine spent the day in the Merseyside town meeting survivors, relatives of the victims, and teachers who continue to support traumatised pupils. Their return was aimed at showing solidarity with a community that has struggled to heal in the shadow of such violence.

The royal couple began their visit by meeting families directly affected by the tragedy. Parents and siblings of the children killed were given private time with the Prince and Princess, who listened as stories of grief, anger and resilience poured out. For many, it was the first time they had spoken openly about their loss since the attack.

Later, William and Kate visited local schools, where staff described the ongoing challenges of supporting pupils who were either present during the attack or who lost close friends. Teachers spoke of nightmares, anxiety, and the enormous task of restoring trust and safety in the classroom. The Princess, who has long championed mental health awareness, assured them of her continuing support.

One of the most poignant moments of the day came at Churchtown Primary School, where a commemorative playground has been built in honour of Alice, Bebe, and Elsie. Bright colours, murals, and benches now stand as a permanent tribute to the young lives lost. As the couple toured the space, they paused at plaques bearing the names of the victims, laying flowers in silence.

Crowds lined the streets of Southport, applauding as the royals passed by. Some held photographs of the three girls, others carried banners calling for stronger protections against knife crime. A sense of sorrow hung heavy in the air, but residents also spoke of hope and pride that the tragedy had not erased the town’s spirit.

For the Princess of Wales, the visit carried an added personal weight. Her previous trip to Merseyside last year had marked her first official outing with William since completing chemotherapy. On this return, she appeared determined, engaging warmly with children and parents, offering comfort to those still haunted by that July afternoon.

Prince William emphasised the importance of remembrance, telling families that their children’s names would never be forgotten. He spoke about the need to protect communities from violence and promised to continue advocating for stronger support for victims and survivors.

As the day ended, the royal couple left Southport with visible emotion. Their visit could not erase the horror of what happened, but it offered recognition, empathy, and a reminder to the town that its grief is shared across the nation.

The murders of Alice, Bebe, and Elsie remain etched in the public consciousness as one of the darkest moments of 2024. For Southport, and for the families left behind, the path to healing is long. The Prince and Princess of Wales’ return may not provide answers, but it brought compassion, solidarity, and a promise that such pain will not be endured in silence.