18-year-old Axel Rudakubana has pleaded guilty to killing three young girls during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport, on the first day of his trial at Liverpool Crown Court.

Axel Rudakubana, of Banks, Lancashire, faced charges for 16 offences, including three counts of murder. The tragic incident occurred on July 29 at The Hart Space, a small business park in the seaside town.

The victims, Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, Bebe King, six, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, lost their lives during the attack. Rudakubana, who was 17 at the time, also admitted to the attempted murder of eight other children—whose identities remain protected—a dance instructor, Leanne Lucas, and businessman John Hayes.

Presiding over the case, Mr. Justice Goose announced that sentencing would take place on Thursday. Rudakubana also pleaded guilty to possessing a knife.

Mr. Justice Goose acknowledged the absence of the victims' families, stating, “I am conscious of the fact the families are not here today.” He expressed his apologies, noting it was assumed the trial would officially begin on Tuesday.

Deanna Heer KC, prosecuting, assured the court that she would speak with the families before Thursday’s sentencing.

Additional Charges

Rudakubana also admitted to producing the biological toxin ricin and possessing information likely to aid in terrorism. These charges stem from evidence found during a search of his home on Old School Close, where he lived with his parents, who are originally from Rwanda.

The ricin and a document titled Military Studies in the Jihad Against the Tyrants, The Al Qaeda Training Manual were uncovered. The document, discovered during the investigation, was allegedly in his possession between August 2021 and July 2024.

Despite the nature of the evidence, Merseyside Police confirmed last year that the attack was not classified as a terrorist incident.

Rudakubana’s actions shocked the local community, and his sentencing on Thursday will bring a legal conclusion to this tragic case.