Taylor Swift has released a statement following the attack in Southport, near Liverpool, during a dance event dedicated to her music.
A 17-year-old boy killed three girls and injured a total of 11 people, seven of whom are said to be still in critical condition.
“The horror of yesterday’s attack in Southport has shocked me and I am in complete shock,” the pop star wrote in an Instagram story. “The loss of life and innocence and the horrific trauma inflicted on everyone who was there, from the families to the emergency workers… They were just little girls in a dance class. I don’t know how to express my deepest sympathy to the families affected.”
The girls were taking part in a dance and yoga class dedicated to Swift's songs. The attacker was arrested and is now in custody of local police.
According to the BBC, Taylor Swift immediately launched a fundraiser for the victims and their families. At the moment, about $60,000 has already been raised.
The proceeds will be donated to Alder Hey Children's Hospital, where the injured are being treated, and will also go towards “the funeral costs of the young Swifties who were tragically killed,” according to the JustGiving page.
Taylor Swift is currently wrapping up the European dates of her record-breaking Eras Tour. She plays Warsaw this weekend and Vienna next week, before closing with five shows at London's Wembley Stadium, starting August 15.
