The parents of six-year-old Bebe King, who died in a Southport knife attack in July, have paid tribute to the ‘shimmering star’ in a heartfelt message.
Bebe is one of three children tragically killed in Stockport July 29 when a knifeman entered Taylor Swift’s dance class and began to attack randomly.
Eight children and two adults were also seriously injured in the attack, including dance teacher Leanne Lucas, 35. All victims have been discharged.
Lauren and Ben King today shared their grief in a statement, telling how ‘the world is devastated by the loss of our precious daughter’.
“My beloved Bebe, only six years old, is full of joy, light, and love, and she will remain in our hearts as a sweet, kind, and spirited girl that we love,” he said, before thanking the community. ‘outpouring of love and support’ at an ‘unimaginably difficult time’.
She also revealed that her nine-year-old daughter, Genie, witnessed the horrific attack before escaping.
“He has shown incredible strength and courage, and we are proud of him,” he said.
The family shared a photo of Bebe (pictured centre) as they launched a touching tribute
Bebe King’s family would like to thank the public for their outpouring of support
Bebe (right) was one of three girls stabbed to death in the horrific attack in Southport in July
“Dear Bebe, just six years old, is full of joy, light, and love, and she will always be in our hearts as the sweet, kind, and spirited girl we love,” the family said in a statement today.
Community members came before the vigil to remember the victims on August 5
“Genie’s resilience is a testament to the love and bond she shared with her sister, and we will continue to support her as we travel this painful journey together as a family”, the parents said in heartbreaking comments shared by Merseyside Police today.
‘Our thoughts are with everyone else involved in this tragedy and all those injured. I hope they find strength and healing in the days to come.’
Lauren and Ben King said the loss of their daughter had left their hearts ‘irreparably broken’ as they acknowledged the victims of the attack were ‘two beautiful souls’, Elsie and Alice.
“To the children who witnessed this terrible event, we send our love and hope that they too will recover, surrounded by the care and support of those who love them,” he said.
‘To the emergency services, who acted with care and professionalism on such a bad day: thank you.
“Your support continues as you care for our family with compassion and dedication, and we will be grateful for the way you have helped us through this difficult time.
‘To the community, friends, and others who have shown such love: thank you. Your messages, your tributes, and your presence have made the world to us and helped us find solace in our sorrow.
“Our thoughts are also with the families of Elsie and Alice, who have suffered this unimaginable loss, and our hearts remain with them.
“Our hearts are broken, but we can tell that Bebe was loved by all who knew her.
‘He will forever be our shimmering star, and we will carry him with us in everything we do.’
Bebe was one of three children who tragically died in Stockport on July 29.
Eight children and two adults were also seriously injured in the attack, including 35-year-old dance teacher Leanne Lucas.
Suspect Axel Rudakubana, 17 from Lancashire, has been charged with the murder of three children and 10 counts of attempted murder.
Community members, family and friends blew bubbles as people gathered to mourn the victims of the horrific knife attack by holding a vigil near Atkinson on August 5.
Three children were killed and ten people were injured during the attack. A vigil was held for the victims on August 5 as the community gathered to support the grieving family
Impression artist Axel Rudakubana covered his face at Liverpool Crown Court on August 1
This week, Bebe King’s grandmother spoke of her grief over the loss of the little girl and announced that the family would be celebrating the day after the attack.
Michael Weston King, 62, wrote in a statement shared on social media: “As many but not all know, I take this time to confirm that my granddaughter Bebe (the little daughter of my eldest son) is one of the three girls who died. in Southport last Friday.
‘Such an act, however useless, is incomprehensible. We are lost but come together as a family, which is very close, to support each other and especially my son, daughter-in-law and other granddaughter.
‘Bebe is a sweet and happy little boy. Loved life, especially music and theater, and felt the deep love that his family and friends held him.
“Monday’s event was even more fun as we were getting together for my eldest son’s wedding, which was due the next day – a fun and wonderful family event.
‘The shift from joy to despair in the matter of very moments.’
Mr Weston King told how the family had been comforted by messages of support from across the country and praised the police for their ‘great dignity’.
He added: ‘I want to thank everyone who has sent me a message. To feel the love and support of many dear and close friends is very important. He has been, has been, and continues to be a great comfort.
‘Bebe is a sweet and happy little boy. Loved life, especially music and theatre, and felt deep affection when he was held by his family and friends,’ wrote Mr Weston King (pictured: Bebe with his aunt)
Bebe King’s grandfather, 62-year-old Michael Weston King (pictured with Bebe) released a touching tribute to his grandson that revealed the family.
Seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe was also fatally injured in the attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class.
Nine-year-old Alice da Silva Aguiar was also among the victims of a fatal stabbing in Southport on Monday, July 29.
The musician, who formed the British country music duo My Darling Clementine and formerly fronted the alternative country band The Good Sons, called the violent unrest that had swept across the country following the attack.
He wrote: ‘I’m not going to comment on what’s happening around the country, except to say peace, love and understanding are needed, and all that is needed. Nothing else.
‘And to anyone who has been blessed with children, I just say, enjoy every minute of it.’
The unrest was partly prompted by misinformation about the suspect, who is now indicted, involved in the July 29 attack.
His false claim as an Islamic asylum seeker was dismissed when Judge Menary KC lifted his anonymity, citing the ‘stupid riots’ sweeping the country.