The inquiry will specifically investigate the circumstances surrounding the murders, which took place during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class, and the broader issues of youth involvement in extreme violence.

A public inquiry into the tragic Southport murders of three young girls has been announced by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, aiming to uncover systemic failings that allowed such a horrific act to occur.

The victims of the attack were nine-year-old Alice da Silva Aguiar, six-year-old Bebe King, and seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe, with the perpetrator, Axel Rudakubana, also attempting to murder eight other children and two adults.

Rudakubana was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 52 years for these murders, which occurred in July 2024.

Prior to the attack, Rudakubana had multiple interactions with the Government's counter-terror program, Prevent, and police, with referrals indicating he posed a significant risk.

A review conducted in February criticized police for a 'lack of professional curiosity' and highlighted a significant error in Rudakubana's name on the Prevent database, which may have contributed to oversight in his case.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has committed to ensuring accountability among the involved agencies and thoroughly investigating the circumstances surrounding this tragedy.

Evidence will be gathered from interviews and disclosures from 15 organizations, including MI5 and Merseyside Police, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the events leading up to the tragedy.

Despite exhibiting troubling behavior and an interest in previous acts of mass violence, Rudakubana's case was closed prematurely due to misconceptions related to his autism and a lack of a clear extremist ideology.

The inquiry will be conducted in two phases: the first will examine the immediate response of law enforcement and agencies involved with Rudakubana, while the second will address the broader issue of youth involvement in extreme violence.

This inquiry will have legal powers to gather evidence and hear witness testimony, ensuring a thorough investigation.

Sir Adrian Fulford, a retired judge and former vice-president of the Court of Appeal, has been appointed to chair the inquiry, focusing on policing and the criminal justice system concerning Rudakubana's past.