London [UK], August 11: The heartbroken parents of a "precious" 6-year-old girl killed in the Southport attack have said that their older daughter saw and escaped the stabbing.
Bebe King was killed alongside Alice da Silva Aguiar, 9, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, 7, during a mass stabbing at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class at the Hart Space in the north-western English seaside town on Monday, July 29.
Bebe's parents paid tribute to their daughter on Saturday, saying she "was full of joy, light, and love" and will remain in their hearts as a "sweet, kind, and spirited girl,"
Lauren and Ben King also said that Bebe's older sister, Genie, 9, witnessed the attack and managed to escape, praising her "incredible strength and courage." They said the "outpouring of love" from people has been a "source of comfort" and they were "overwhelmed" by the "kindness and compassion" shown to their family.
The Kings mentioned tributes such as pink lights, bows, balloons, cards and candles left in Sefton and Liverpool in Bebe's memory.
They said Bebe, with Elsie and Alice, were "taken in an unimaginable act of violence that has left [their] hearts broken beyond repair." The couple also said that their thoughts were with everyone involved in the tragedy, sending their love and hope to children who saw what happened.
They praised the "care and professionalism" of emergency workers, and thanked people who have shown them "such love." The statement added: "Our hearts are broken, but we find some comfort in knowing that Bebe was so deeply loved by all who knew her.
He is also charged with the attempted murder of yoga class instructor Leanne Lucas, businessman John Hayes, and eight children, who cannot be named for legal reasons, and possession of a kitchen knife with a curved blade.
The incident sparked nationwide disorder. The National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) said 779 people have been arrested over rioting, of whom 349 were charged.
Suspected rioters were continuing to appear in court on Saturday, while police forces were braced for further protests. The NPCC said specialist officers have been tasked with pursuing suspected online offenders and so-called influencers, who they say are responsible for "spreading hate and inciting violence on a large scale." Across the country, teams are investigating "hundreds of leads."
Source: Qatar Tribune