Kate Middleton and Prince William Make Emotional Return to Southport After Knife Attack

Kate Middleton and Prince William are continuing their support for the grieving families and schoolchildren affected by the horrific attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class.

On Sept. 23, the Prince and Princess of Wales, both 43, made an unannounced visit to spend time with kids, teachers and families in Southport, near Liverpool, to show their ongoing support for the community following the tragedy.

Three girls — Bebe King, 6, Elsie Dot Stancombe, 7, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, 9 — were killed during the knife attack in July 2024. In January 2025, Axel Rudakubana, 18, was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum of 52 years after admitting to his role in the deadly attack.

Tuesday’s visit was the latest by the couple to the area. They were last there in October 2024 when they met with bereaved families and some of the emergency responders who were working on that tragic day.

On Sept. 23, the couple began their visit at Farnborough Road Infant and Junior School, which Elsie Dot Stancombe attended. There, William and Kate spoke to the teachers about how the school was impacted by the attack and the support the infant and associated junior school has given to pupils, staff and the local community.

They then met privately with Elsie’s parents and her younger sister.

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When news of the tragedy first broke in July 2024, William and Kate — parents to Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7  — issued a statement of sympathy: “As parents, we cannot begin to imagine what the families, friends and loved ones of those killed and injured in Southport today are going through.”

After the couple’s emotional visit last October, the couple wrote on their social media: “We continue to stand with everyone in Southport. Meeting the community today has been a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting one another in the wake of unimaginable tragedy. You will remain in our thoughts and prayers.”

That came about a month after Kate announced that she completed chemotherapy treatment for cancer.

And in December, Princess Kate invited the families and survivors from the town to her Together at Christmas  carol service held at Westminster Abbey.

The couple’s visit to Southport in Oct. 2024 followed that of King Charles‘ poignant trip there on Aug. 20, where he met some of the families affected by the tragedy and other local groups and faith leaders impacted by the violence.