Parents Express Disdain for Southport Attacker's Father
The parents of the three young girls killed by Axel Rudakubana in Southport have shown "complete disdain" for his father, Alphonse Rudakubana, according to a public inquiry held today.
Victims and Incident Overview
Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, Bebe King, six, and Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, were murdered during a violent attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class last July. Ten others were seriously injured in the incident.
Father’s Statements and Admission
Alphonse Rudakubana, 49, addressed the girls' parents, calling his son a "monster" who killed their "beautiful angels." He admitted that he was aware Axel was collecting large knives and weapons prior to the attack. Alphonse also revealed that he may have prevented his son from setting fire to his former school a week before the murders.
Despite this knowledge, Alphonse said he lacked the "courage" to report Axel to the police, confessing that his "pure love" for his son held him back.
Legal Representation and Inquiry Remarks
Nicholas Bowen KC, representing the victims' parents, told Alphonse Rudakubana: "All three sets of parents have listened to what you've written and what you've said and have complete disdain for your excuses and the manner in which you have answered questions."
Sir Adrian Fulford, chairman of the inquiry, criticized the barrister for making these remarks without prior consultation, stating they were "not appropriate."
Author’s Summary
The inquiry revealed deep anguish and condemnation from the victims' parents toward the attacker’s father, who admitted knowing of his son’s dangerous behavior but did not intervene.