LONDON — A man has been arrested following a stabbing incident in Southport, northwest England, which left at least eight people injured on Monday. A local children’s hospital declared a major incident, and the prime minister described the event as “deeply shocking.”
North West Ambulance Service reported that it treated eight patients with stab wounds, who were then transported to three different hospitals, including Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.
Merseyside Police confirmed that armed officers arrested a man and confiscated a knife after responding to reports of a stabbing around 11:50 a.m. (1050 GMT). They assured the public that there was no broader threat.
“Horrendous and deeply shocking news emerging from Southport. My thoughts are with all those affected,” Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated on X.
“I would like to thank the police and emergency services for their swift response. I am being kept updated as the situation develops.”
Alder Hey Children’s Hospital declared a major incident, noting that its emergency department was extremely busy. It advised parents to only bring their children in for urgent cases.