Southport stabbings murder suspect pictured as his full name is released in court

Pictured for the first time, this is the 17-year-old boy accused of murdering three children at a Taylor Swift-themed dance event in Southport. The teenager can be named as Axel Rudakubana for the first time today (August 1) after reporting restrictions were lifted by Judge Andrew Menary KC, Honorary Recorder of Liverpool.

It was revealed in Liverpool Magistrates' Court that Rudakubana would have lost his anonymity next Wednesday, when he turns 18 years old. An application from the press to name Rudakubana today instead was successful, the Liverpool Echo reports.

Rudakubana has been charged with the murders of Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine; Bebe King, six; and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven; following stabbings on Hart Street, Southport, on Monday (July 29). Eight other children suffered knife wounds, including five left in a critical condition, while two adults were also critically hurt.

READ MORE: LIVE Southport stabbings murder suspect named as he appears in court

Rudakubana appeared in court covering his face with a prison issue jumper. He has also been charged with the attempted murder of two adults - yoga class instructor Leanne Lucas and businessman John Hayes - as well as the attempted murder of the eight children who cannot be named for legal reasons.

He is also charged with possession of a bladed article, a curved kitchen knife, the court heard. A potential trial date is scheduled for January 20 next year, allowing for 'a number of weeks if required', the court heard.

A plea hearing has been set for October 25. Rudakubana was remanded into custody in youth detention accommodation.

Judge Menary said: "Mr Rudakubana, I am going to adjourn this matter now. The next hearing as far as you are concerned is a plea and