A TEENAGER who killed three young girls at a Taylor Swift-themed dance event in Southport was sentenced on Thursday to serve at least 52 years in prison.

The attack, described by prime minister Keir Starmer as one of the most harrowing moments in Britain's history, also left 10 others injured and led to nationwide rioting in its aftermath.

Axel Rudakubana, 18, pleaded guilty to the murders and stabbings, which took place last July in the northern English town.

Liverpool Crown Court was told that Rudakubana had a deep obsession with violence and genocide. Prosecutor Deanna Heer described the injuries inflicted on two of the girls as "difficult to explain as anything other than sadistic in nature."

Judge Julian Goose sentenced Rudakubana to a minimum of 52 years, stating that while his actions warranted a full life sentence, his age—17 at the time of the attack—made that legally impossible.

The judge said Rudakubana was unlikely ever to be released.

During the hearing, Rudakubana had to be removed from the dock twice after shouting that he was unwell. He refused to return to court to hear the sentencing.

The court was shown video footage of the attack, capturing children screaming and fleeing the building. One bloodied girl collapsed outside, prompting sobs from the courtroom's public gallery.