Police issue warning after 'incorrect' name for Southport stabbings suspect circulated online

Merseyside Police have issued a warning after an 'incorrect' name for the alleged Southport attacker was widely circulated online. Inaccurate posts by social media sleuths about the identity of the perpetrator have received millions of views and engagements.

A 17-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, remains in custody accused of murder and attempted murder following the incident on Monday (July 29).

Three girls, Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine died in the horror attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance party on Hart Street, Southport.

READ MORE Three young girls killed in Southport stabbing named

Eight other children suffered stab wounds sustained during the attack - with five of them in a critical condition. Two adults are also in a critical condition after being injured and 'bravely' trying to save the children during the horror incident.

Merseyside Police have now urged people 'not to speculate' on the details of the incident and said that a name being shared on social media is incorrect.

A Merseyside Police statement said: "A name has been shared on social media in connection with the suspect in the incident in Southport. This name is incorrect and we would urge people not to speculate on details of the incident while the investigation is ongoing."

The force added: "This incident is not currently being treated as terror-related and we are not looking for anyone else in connection with it."

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper also warned against 'speculating or commenting' on the criminal investigation into the stabbing. When asked whether she could provide more information, including whether the suspect was known to authorities, she said: "Merseyside Police are