Southport Inquiry launched into circumstances of brutal attack

The Southport Inquiry has officially begun, aiming to investigate the tragic murders of three young girls by Axel Rudakubana during a dance class in July 2024. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the inquiry's statutory nature, which empowers it to compel witnesses and gather evidence comprehensively. The first phase will focus on the events leading up to the attack, including Rudakubana's history with the Government’s Prevent counterterrorism program, which had closed cases against him despite multiple referrals. Sir Adrian Fulford has been appointed chair of the inquiry and will prioritize meeting with victims' families. The inquiry is expected to address systemic failures across policing and public services that may have contributed to this tragedy. A second phase will explore broader issues related to youth involvement in extreme violence.