The chairman of the Southport attack public inquiry has pledged to answer every question from bereaved families and victims. Sir Adrian Fulford made the commitment at Liverpool Town Hall on Tuesday, following emotional testimony from affected families.
The inquiry has heard impact evidence from families of the three murdered children. Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, Bebe King, six, and Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, were killed by Axel Rudakubana on July 29 last year during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class.
Testimony was also heard from families of other children present, injured businessman Jonathan Hayes, and teachers Leanne Lucas and Heidi Liddle who were running the class. Their accounts detailed the devastating impact of the attack on the Southport community.
Inquiry's commitment to families
Sir Adrian emphasised the profound effect of the testimonies on all present. "None of us who have been present in this chamber will ever forget what we have heard, along with the courage and dignity of each and every one of those who have spoken or who have provided silent support," he said.
He described the "incalculable loss and harm" detailed in the impact evidence as the driving force behind investigating events leading up to the attack. The chairman stressed this made it necessary to examine what happened in the years before July 29.
Rigorous investigation promised
Sir Adrian assured families and victims of the inquiry's thoroughness. "I am acutely aware that the families and the victims expect the fullest explanation of how it was possible for something so appalling to have happened, following what I intend will be rigorous and fair scrutiny of every relevant stage leading up to July 29 2024," he stated.
He promised comprehensive examination to prevent future tragedies. "I would therefore reassure families and the victims, given we are now turning to the opening statements and evidence, that I and the inquiry team, with the necessary assistance of all agencies, bodies and individuals whose actions will be scrutinised, will do everything that's humanly possible to answer those questions," Sir Adrian said.
Scope of investigation
Counsel to the Southport Inquiry Nicholas Moss KC outlined the investigation's breadth in his opening statement. The inquiry will establish a definitive account of the attack and relevant preceding events.
This includes examining Rudakubana's history and interactions with various state systems. The investigation will cover his contact with criminal justice, education, social care and healthcare services to understand how the attack was possible.
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
