By Jamie Lopez Stand Up For Southport
A third child has died as a result of injuries sustained in a knife attack in Southport, police have confirmed.
Merseyside Police today issued a tragic update to say a nine-year-old girl has died. The force yesterday announced the deaths of two children who they now say were girls aged six and seven.
A total of eight other children received stab wounds and five of those remain in critical condition. Two adults are also in hospital in critical condition.
Meanwhile, the 17-year-old boy arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder is still held in police custody. The force has also issued a plea for the public to stop speculating and spreading false information about the incident.
In particular, the force said one name – Ali Al-Shakati – has been widely circulated but is completely incorrect. The name was trending across social media along with claims he had arrived in the country by boat last year. The force said the suspect currently detained was born in Cardiff and moved to Southport in 2013.
A police spokesperson said: “This incident is not currently being treated as terror-related and we are not looking for anyone else in connection with it. Anyone who witnessed anything, or who has information that could help our investigation can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
“Victim Care officers will be at the Community Support Centre set up at Southport FC from 10am-6pm today to support those affected.
“Anyone who has been affected by this incident, can contact our Victim Care Merseyside service for help and support. Our hub of local, trained staff is here to provide free, emotional and practical support tailored to your needs.
“You can contact Victim Care Merseyside for help whether you have reported a crime to the police or not by calling Freephone 0808 175 3080 on weekdays between 8am and 6pm or request support online at any time at www.victimcaremerseyside.org.”
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