Police have confirmed that a third child has died following a stabbing attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class for young children in Southport, England on Monday.

The 9-year-old girl succumbed to her injuries early Tuesday, according to the BBC. Five other children and two adults remain in critical condition at local hospitals.

Taylor Swift expressed her shock and grief, stating she was “completely in shock” and still processing “the horror” of the attack.

“These were just little kids at a dance class,” she wrote in an Instagram story. “I am at a complete loss for how to ever convey my sympathies to these families.” 

The 17-year-old suspect has been apprehended on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. Authorities are actively investigating the motive behind the rampage. 

Locals have gathered at a police cordon on the street where the attack occurred, leaving flowers and stuffed animals in tribute. The seaside resort, known as “sunny Southport,” attracts visitors from across northwest England. 

Witnesses have described the scene as “from a horror movie,” with bloodied children fleeing the attack just before noon on Monday. The suspect was apprehended shortly after the incident on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. Police have stated that the suspect, who was born in Cardiff, Wales, has resided in a village approximately 3 miles from Southport for several years. He has not yet been charged. 

Police have clarified that the attack is not being investigated as terror-related, and they are not seeking any additional suspects. 

“We believe the adults who were injured were bravely trying to protect the children who were being attacked,” Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy said, according to the Associated Press. 

The attack took place at the Hart Space, a local community center. The suspect targeted a Taylor Swift-themed yoga and dance workshop intended for children aged 6-11. 

Witnesses have reported hearing screams and observing children running from the scene covered in blood. 

“They were in the road, running from the nursery,” said Bare Varathan, owner of a nearby shop. “They had been stabbed, here, here, here, everywhere,” he said, pointing to the neck, back and chest.

The dance teacher, identified as Leanne Lucas, has received praise for her bravery in attempting to shield the children during the attack. She is reported to be one of the two adults in critical condition. 

expressed his condemnation of the stabbing spree, calling it “horrendous and deeply shocking.”

“My thoughts are with all those affected. I would like to thank the police and emergency services for their swift response,” he said. “I am being kept updated as the situation develops.”

Prince William and his wife Catherine expressed their sympathy, stating that “as parents, we cannot begin to imagine what the families, friends and loved ones of those killed and injured in Southport today are going through.”

Digital’s Greg Norman and the Associated Press contributed to this update.