Have you ever faced a moment where you just couldn’t stop holding your child, feeling overwhelmed by the sheer randomness of life?
Leanne Hassan, a mother whose daughter attends a nursery near the scene of a brutal knife attack in Southport, shares her emotional ordeal. Three children were tragically killed, and five others critically injured during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class. A 17-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with the incident. The local community is in shock, struggling to come to terms with the violence that disrupted their quiet suburb. Vigils and community support have emerged as people grapple with the aftermath of this tragedy.
Leanne Hassan couldn’t contain her emotions as she recounted the horrific events of a day that changed Southport forever. As she heard about the stabbing spree that took place just a street away from her daughter’s nursery, a wave of fear and relief washed over her. “I could not stop hugging my little girl last night,” she confessed, her voice trembling. The attack, which claimed the lives of three children and left five others fighting for theirs, has left the community reeling. The suspect, a 17-year-old boy, now faces serious charges as police continue their investigation.

The Unthinkable Incident
The tranquil town of Southport was shattered by a vicious knife attack at a dance workshop on Hart Street. The workshop, themed around Taylor Swift, was meant to be a joyous event for children, a break from their daily routines. Instead, it turned into a nightmare. The attacker, a 17-year-old boy from Banks, Lancashire, unleashed what police described as a “ferocious” assault. Three children lost their lives, and five others, along with two adults, were critically injured. This was not an act of terror, according to Merseyside Police, but it was nonetheless a senseless act of violence that has left scars on the community.
A Mother’s Fear and Relief
For Leanne Hassan, the proximity of the attack was terrifying. Her daughter was safely tucked away at a nursery on nearby Poplar Street when the news broke. “I could not stop hugging my little girl last night,” she said, her voice breaking. The nursery had gone into lockdown, preventing Leanne from immediately retrieving her daughter. “I just wanted her in my arms, but obviously it was the right thing for the police to do that, to keep the children safe,” she said. The reality of the situation hit her hard – while she could hold her daughter, other parents were in hospital waiting rooms, praying for their children’s survival.
Community in Mourning
Southport, typically known for its peaceful suburban life, is now a town in mourning. Dozens of bouquets, cuddly toys, and heartfelt messages have been placed near the scene on Hart Street. People on their way to work pause to reflect, leaving tokens of sympathy and sorrow. Local churches have opened their doors to offer solace, and the local football club has cancelled its match to provide a space for community members to come together.
Vigil and Support
A vigil has been organised to take place at Town Hall Gardens, outside The Atkinson building in Southport. The gathering aims to support those affected and provide a communal space for grieving and healing. Southport MP Patrick Hurley has returned from Westminster to be with his constituents, praising the community’s resilience and unity. Former MP Damien Moore echoed these sentiments, expressing his heartbreak over the attack in a place associated with holidays and carefree summers.
A Community Stunned
The shockwaves of the attack have left the community in a state of disbelief. Local churches and community centres have become havens for those seeking comfort. Southport Sailing Club paid tribute to John Hayes, a former member reportedly involved in the incident. A businessman attempted to disarm the attacker, demonstrating the bravery and quick thinking of ordinary people in the face of extraordinary circumstances.

Moving Forward
As Southport begins to process the horror of the attack, there’s a collective determination not to let this act of violence define them. Mr. Moore, reflecting on the community’s response, emphasized the importance of continuing to live fully despite the tragedy. “We want to be able to have fun, to enjoy things in life, for children to go about these normal activities,” he said, reinforcing the community’s resolve to reclaim their sense of normalcy.
In the wake of a devastating knife attack, the Southport community is grappling with grief and disbelief. Leanne Hassan’s emotional account highlights the intense fear and relief felt by parents in the vicinity of the tragedy. As the town comes together to mourn and support one another, the resilience and unity of the community shine through. The incident, though harrowing, has sparked a determination to maintain a sense of normalcy and togetherness in Southport.
“I could not stop hugging my little girl last night. I am just so lucky she’s safe when so many parents are sitting in a hospital waiting room.”
Join us in supporting the victims and their families. Attend the vigil at Town Hall Gardens and stand with the Southport community in this time of need.