At least eight people, including children, have been injured in a “major incident” in northwest England.
Merseyside Police said emergency services received reports of a stabbing at a property on Hart Street in Southport just before 11.50am BST on Monday.
“There are a number of reported casualties and more details will be confirmed when possible,” police said in a statement.
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“Armed police have detained a male and seized a knife. He has been taken to a police station.
“Please avoid the area while we deal with this incident. There is no wider threat to the public.”
The North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) said 13 crews were dispatched to the scene along with resources from the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART), Air Ambulance and Merit Doctors following reports of “multiple stabbings”.
Paramedics treated eight patients for stab injuries before they were taken to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Aintree University Hospital and Southport and Formby Hospital.
“We’re assessing the situation and working with emergency partners,” NWAS said.
Alder Hey Children’s Hospital later declared a “major incident” and asked parents to “only bring their children to the Emergency Department if it is urgent”.
Photos showed several police cars, ambulances and a fire engine behind cordon tape on a residential street.
‘Deeply shocked’
Merseyside police commissioner Emily Spurrell said she is “deeply shocked” and “concerned” by the major incident.
“An arrest has been made and there is no wider risk to the public,” she said in a post on X.
“I would urge people to be careful about what they share online and not to speculate about this incident. Official updates will follow shortly.”
More to come …