Two hero dance class teachers saved up to 16 innocent children from a masked killer who ambushed a Taylor Swift-themed workshop in Southport yesterday. The brave actions of Leanne Lucas, 35, and Heidi Barlow, also 35, have been revealed as they now fight for their lives in the hospital following the ferocious attack that left three children dead.
Leanne Lucas, a primary school supply teacher who also teaches children’s yoga workshops, organized the yoga and bracelet-making class. She suffered stab injuries when a man entered the venue through an unlocked door, left open due to the scorching heat, and began attacking the children.
Ms Lucas and Ms Barlow managed to save 16 children from the 25-strong class, consisting of kids aged between six and 11. Despite their efforts, eight other children were injured, with five currently in critical condition, alongside the two female adults who bravely tried to protect them.
In an update issued today, Merseyside Police confirmed the death of a third girl, aged nine, in the early hours of Tuesday morning. The two children who died yesterday were girls aged six and sev
Ms Lucas, a qualified primary school teacher and the owner and founder of Enlighten planned the two-hour session to coincide with the start of the school holidays. She has been hailed today by relatives for her bravery and dedication to her students.
Pauline Bennett, 64, paid tribute to her niece, saying, “She’s only tiny, she wouldn’t have stood a chance against a man with a knife, but she just wanted to protect those children. I can’t imagine what she would have been thinking when he came through the door. It all happened so quickly, she just did what she could. Her sister stayed at her bedside all night and her parents are with her now. We’re just hoping and praying that she’s going to be ok. Leanne loves teaching children; it’s all she’s ever wanted to do. She just loves children. It’s just heartbreaking that someone could do something like this.”
A former school friend described Ms Lucas as a dedicated teacher who used to work at a local primary school before teaching abroad in China and Dubai. Ms. Lucas returned home during the COVID-19 pandemic and has since continued her passion for teaching and organizing events for children. Her aunt mentioned that Leanne is a big fan of Taylor Swift and had attended one of her concerts, bringing back a poster for the kids.
Sunshine Yoga, where Ms. Lucas trained, posted on Facebook: “I’m absolutely devastated. Please please pray for Leanne. Leanne came on my training course in December. A beautiful young creative girl who was so passionate about helping children. I just can’t believe it. Please pray.”
The attack has left the Southport community in shock and mourning. Floral tributes, stuffed toys, and messages of sympathy have been piling up at the scene as locals express their condolences for the victims and their families.
Police continue to investigate the motive behind the attack, with a 17-year-old boy currently in custody on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
As the investigation unfolds, the community grapples with the impact of this tragedy, reflecting on the heroism displayed by the teachers and the enduring spirit of the Southport community.
