Axel Rudakubana has been sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 52 years for the murders of three young girls: Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, Bebe King, six, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven. The sentencing took place at Liverpool Crown Court on January 23.

During a hearing, it was revealed that Rudakubana expressed a chilling sentiment to police, stating, "I'm glad they're dead" while in custody following the horrific events.

The 18-year-old pleaded guilty at the start of his trial to the brutal stabbing of the three girls during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport in July of the previous year. The attack occurred at The Hart Space shortly before midday on July 29, where all three victims were fatally wounded.

In addition to the murders, Rudakubana pleaded guilty to the attempted murder of eight other children and two adults, Leanne Lucas and Jonathan Hayes.

He faced charges of possession of a knife and the production of a biological toxin, ricin, which is against the Biological Weapons Act 1974. Furthermore, he was found to possess a document titled “Military Studies in the Jihad Against the Tyrants: The Al-Qaeda Training Manual.”

Mr Justice Goose imposed a life sentence, emphasizing that Rudakubana must serve at least 52 years and would likely remain in custody for life. Since he was 17 at the time of the offences, he is not eligible for a whole life order.

In court, Rudakubana appeared in a grey prison issue tracksuit, surrounded by security. He wore a face mask and did not acknowledge the proceedings.

Later in the hearing, he claimed to feel unwell and was subsequently taken to hospital. He was required to leave the dock by Mr Justice Goose.

Defence counsel Stan Reiz KC characterized Rudakubana’s behaviour as immature, but Mr Justice Goose noted it seemed more like an attempt to avoid facing justice.

While delivering the sentence, the judge described Rudakubana's actions as "evil" and highlighted the calculated nature of the attack, which targeted children attending a joyful event.

Mr Justice Goose stated: “During the event, there were 26 children having fun. Rudakubana’s intent was to perpetrate horrific violence against them.” He detailed how Rudakubana arrived at the venue with a premeditated plan to cause mass harm.

Prosecution counsel Deanna Heer KC detailed the horrific nature of the attack, noting that Rudakubana was armed with a kitchen knife purchased online, and described his actions as sadistic, leading to the deaths and injuries of several children.

Heer also highlighted that upon searching Rudakubana’s home, multiple weapons and ricin were discovered, alongside documents indicating an obsession with violence and acts of terror.

Despite no evidence of a mental disorder, the transition of Rudakubana from a disciplined child to a perpetrator of such violence was noted by defence counsel as alarming.

On the morning of the attack, Rudakubana utilized a ride-sharing service to reach The Hart Space and committed the stabbing shortly after entering the building.

Mr Justice Goose reflected on the lasting impact of the crime: “The families of Elsie, Bebe, and Alice will bear the pain of this loss forever. The lives of those he attempted to murder are irrevocably changed." The chilling account of the attack showcased Rudakubana's intent to inflict maximum harm on innocent children.