2 children killed, 9 others injured in U.K. stabbing attack

On Monday morning in northwest England, a "ferocious" stabbing attack occurred, resulting in the deaths of two children and injuries to nine others, according to police.

Merseyside Police reported that the incident took place in Southport, a coastal town in Merseyside located north of Liverpool.

The injured were taken to Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Southport and Formby Hospital, and Aintree University Hospital.

Reports of "multiple stabbings" at Hart Space Studios in Southport were received around 11:50 a.m. on Monday, prompting the deployment of armed police and ambulances.

Alder Hey officials stated, "We are working with other emergency services to respond to this incident and our Emergency Department is currently extremely busy." The Liverpool hospital classified the stabbing on Monday as a "major incident."

Merseyside Police detained a 17-year-old male from Cardiff and confiscated a knife. Police confirmed that the incident is not related to terrorism.

"Horrendous and deeply shocking news emerging from Southport," U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer wrote on social media. "My thoughts are with all those affected. I would like to thank the police and emergency services for their swift response. I am being kept updated as the situation develops."

Southport is a town in the county of Merseyside, northwest England.