Parents of Southport stabbings victims pay tribute to daughters – and describe moment they were told ‘something awful has happened’

Introduction

In a tragic incident during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class at Hart Space studio in Southport, two innocent girls, Bebe King and Elsie Dot Stancombe, lost their lives. Their parents, Jenni Stancombe and Bebe’s mother, recount the harrowing moment they received the devastating news. Jenni, after dropping Elsie off with excitement, received a call about the stabbing, prompting a frantic rush to the scene. Bebe’s mother, engrossed in wedding preparations, was similarly shattered by the news, rushing to the studio in disbelief. The day ended in unimaginable grief as they faced the loss of their daughters, their lives forever altered by the tragedy.

Personal Tributes

Bebe King, named after the legendary blues guitarist BB King, was a vibrant child with a knack for humor and affection. Her mother cherishes memories of their unique bond, from spontaneous laughter to heartfelt hugs, highlighting Bebe’s innate kindness. Elsie, described as a whirlwind of enthusiasm, approached life with gratitude, whether it was helping with chores or seizing every opportunity. Jenni reflects on Elsie’s intelligence and the support she received from her tutor, Leanne Lucas, who ensured her spot in the dance class, a decision that weighs heavily on their minds.

Community and Royal Support

The community of Southport rallied around the grieving families, offering solace and support. The Royal Family’s involvement brought comfort, particularly the visit from the Princess of Wales, which Jenni found deeply meaningful. The King’s subsequent meeting with the families further showed genuine care, offering a moment of grace amidst sorrow. The community’s kindness, from unpaid funeral services to donations, illuminated the darkness, reminding the families they were not alone in their grief.

Perpetrator and Sentencing

Axel Rudakubana, then 17, indiscriminately attacked the dance class with a knife from Amazon, leaving three children dead and eight injured. He received 13 life sentences with a 52-year minimum term. His possession of weapons and extremist material raised questions, though his motive remained unclear. The families, absent during his guilty plea, opposed the sentencing’s televisation, feeling it exploited their pain. Emotional statements in court from survivors like Leanne Lucas underscored the lasting impact of the tragedy.

Coping and Charity

Struggling to adapt, the families have found solace in charity work. Jenni and her partner established Elsie’s Story to help underprivileged children, channeling their grief into purpose. Bebe’s family, while unable to return to routine, finds comfort in memories and community support. Their journeys, marked by loss, now seek healing through helping others, honoring their daughters’ legacies.

Conclusion

Bebe and Elsie’s lives, though cut short, leave a lasting impact. Their stories, of laughter and kindness, inspire a community united in grief. The families’ resilience, supported by their community and the Royal Family, exemplifies hope amidst sorrow. Through Elsie’s Story, their memories live on, offering light in darkness and a testament to the enduring power of love and compassion.