Major Incident Declared in Southport Following Multiple Stabbings

UPDATE:

We regret to inform you that one person, believed to be a child, has tragically died following the stabbing incident on Hart Street this morning. Additionally, more than ten others, including both adults and children, have been transported to various hospitals in the region with major traumas.

Alder Hey Children's Hospital has declared a major incident as it works to manage the influx of patients. The attack, initially centered on a property in Hart Street, is understood to have extended beyond the property and into the surrounding area.

Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.

ORIGINAL:

Police have declared a major incident in Southport this morning following reports of a stabbing, resulting in multiple casualties.

Merseyside Police confirmed that officers were called to a property on Hart Street at approximately 11:50 BST. The initial statement reports a "number of casualties," though specific details will be confirmed as the investigation proceeds.

Armed police responded promptly, detaining a male suspect and seizing a knife. The suspect has been taken to a local police station for further questioning. This swift action by the armed unit has helped to contain the situation and mitigate any further potential harm.

Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area as they manage the situation. However, they have reassured residents that there is no wider threat to the public. The area around Hart Street has been cordoned off, and a significant police presence remains on-site to secure the scene and carry out investigations.

A spokesperson for Merseyside Police stated: “We can confirm that emergency services are in Southport following a major incident this morning, Monday 29 July. At around 11:50 am, we were called to a property on Hart Street to reports of a stabbing. There are a number of reported casualties and more details will be confirmed when possible. Armed police have detained a male and seized a knife. He has been taken to a police station. Please avoid the area while we deal with this incident. There is no wider threat to the public.”

Local residents have expressed shock and concern over the incident. A nearby resident, said, “It's usually a quiet neighborhood, so hearing about something like this is really unsettling. I hope everyone involved is okay.”

The emergency response to the incident has been extensive, with two helicopters and dozens of emergency service personnel on the scene. Ambulances, police vehicles, and fire trucks have been deployed to manage the situation and provide immediate assistance to those injured. Forensic teams are also present, meticulously gathering evidence to aid the ongoing investigation.

The priority remains on ensuring the safety of all individuals and providing medical assistance to the injured. Hospitals in the vicinity have been alerted to prepare for the influx of casualties.

Authorities are also appealing for witnesses to come forward with any information that could aid in the investigation. They emphasize the importance of community cooperation in resolving such critical incidents swiftly.

Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Police are expected to hold a press conference later today to address the media and provide additional details on the incident.

In the meantime, local services and community support groups are being mobilized to assist those affected by the incident, offering both practical support and counseling services. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and avoid spreading unverified information.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of such events and the critical role of emergency services in ensuring public safety. The community's resilience and solidarity will undoubtedly play a crucial role in overcoming this challenging situation.