Heroic dance instructors save children in deadly UK stabbing attack

Two children were killed, and another nine people were injured in a stabbing attack in Southport, United Kingdom. There could have been more victims if not for the heroic actions of two dance instructors, Leanne Lucas and Heidi Barlow. The 35-year-olds saved the children from the attacker.

The attacker killed two children. Six of the injured are in critical condition, fighting for their lives in hospitals in the North West. Two adults who were also stabbed are in critical condition.

There likely would have been more victims if not for the heroic actions of the two dance instructors. Leanne Lucas and Heidi Barlow were teaching a class when the attack occurred. The women remained composed and saved 16 children.

The adults who were injured bravely tried to protect the attacked children, said Merseyside Police Chief Serena Kennedy.

The women directed several children to an emergency exit. According to reports in the British press, Heidi Barlow hid with one child in the bathroom while Leanne Lucas shielded the children with her own body. Lucas was stabbed and is fighting for her life.

King Charles III and his wife, Queen Camilla, said they were deeply shocked by the event. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also commented on the events, saying that "the whole country is deeply shocked by what it saw" in Southport.

A 17-year-old suspect has been arrested on charges of murder and attempted murder.