Parents of Bebe King, six, who was stabbed to death at Taylor Swift dance class in Southport pay…see more

Parents of Bebe King, six, who was stabbed to death at Taylor Swift dance class in Southport pay tribute to their ‘shimmering star’ – and reveal how her nine-year-old sister managed to escape after witnessing ‘unimaginable act of violence’

The parents of six-year-old Bebe King, who was killed in the Southport knife attack in July, have paid tribute to their ‘shimmering star’ in a heartfelt message.

Bebe was one of three children tragically murdered in Southport on July 29 when a knifeman entered a Taylor Swift dance class and began attacking indiscriminately.

Eight children and two adults were also seriously injured in the attack, including dance teacher Leanne Lucas, 35. All of the casualties have since been discharged.

Lauren and Ben King today shared their grief in a statement, telling how their ‘world was shattered by the loss of our precious daughter’.

‘Our beloved Bebe, only six years old, was full of joy, light, and love, and she will always remain in our hearts as the sweet, kind, and spirited girl we adore,’ they said, before thanking the community for an ‘outpouring of love and support’ in an ‘unimaginably difficult time’.

They also revealed that their nine-year-old daughter, Genie, witnessed the horrifying attack before escaping.

‘She has shown such incredible strength and courage, and we are so proud of her,’ they said.

Genie’s ‘resilience is a testament to the love and bond she shared with her little sister, and we will continue to support her as we navigate this painful journey together as a family’, the parents said in a heartbreaking comment shared via Merseyside Police today.

‘Our thoughts are also with everyone else involved in this tragedy and all those who were injured. We hope that they find strength and healing in the days ahead.’

Lauren and Ben King said that the loss of their daughter had left their hearts broken ‘beyond repair’ as they acknowledged the ‘two other beautiful souls’ victim to the attack, Elsie and Alice.

‘To the children who witnessed this terrible event, we send our love and hope that they too can begin to heal, surrounded by the care and support of those who love them,’ they continued.