Publish date: 20 January 2025
Following my earlier message about the start of the trial of Axel Rudakubana, I am writing to inform you that he pleaded guilty to all 16 charges, including the murders of Elsie Dot Stancombe, Bebe King and Alice da Silva Aguair.
Our thoughts remain with all those affected by this shocking incident.
The guilty plea means the trial will no longer go ahead and instead the legal process will move straight to sentencing, which is scheduled for 24 January 2025.
As a result, reporting restrictions have been lifted and we will see further details about the incident and Rudakubana himself released across mainstream and social media over the next few days.
This will undoubtedly be a difficult time for members of our Southport community.
Information about our staff wellbeing support is available on the extranet and Sefton Council website has a dedicated space containing public resources.
If you are approached by any journalists, please direct all enquiries directly to: communications
It is vitally important that we all maintain our professionalism and respect for the families of the victims at this sensitive time.
As always, please look after yourselves and each other.
Noir Thomas, Chief Medical Officer