Southport murders accused faces trial next year

The 18-year-old accused of carrying out a knife attack at a dance class in Southport is set to go on trial in January.

Axel Rudakubana, of Lancashire, appeared via videolink from HMP Belmarsh for a plea and trial preparation hearing at Liverpool Crown Court but he was not asked to enter any pleas to the 16 charges he faces.

Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, Bebe King, six, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, died after the attack on 29 July.

Mr Justice Julian Goose Mr Rudakubana ordered a further preparatory hearing on 12 December ahead of the trial listed to take place on 20 January, which is estimated to last four to six weeks.

Mr Rudakubana was sitting with a single prison officer behind him and holding his grey sweatshirt over his face with his left hand.

He did not speak as he was twice asked by the judge to identify himself.

He was asked to confirm his name, and that he could hear the proceedings but did not answer.

About 20 family members of the victims were sitting in the public gallery, alongside Leanne Lucas, a yoga instructor who was also stabbed in the attack.

The judge told the court the defendant had "chosen" not to say anything and ordered a further preparatory hearing ahead of the trial.

As he remanded him in custody, he addressed Mr Rudakubana directly.

He said: "Mr Rudakubana can you hear me? Just raise your hand if you can hear me."

The defendant did not respond.

As he remanded him in custody, the judge added: "Well I know you can hear me because the officer behind you said I can be heard."

The defendant, of Old School Close in Banks, is charged with three counts of murder, 10 of attempted murder, possession of a knife, production of biological toxin, ricin, and possession of information likely to be useful to a person committing or preparing to commit an act of terrorism.

The attempted murder charges relate to eight children, who cannot be named for legal reasons, Ms Lucas and businessman John Hayes.

Additional reporting by PA Media.

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