Swift Dance Tragedy: Teen's Silent Defense as Riots Erupt

Axel Rudakubana, 18, faces murder and attempted murder charges after a deadly stabbing at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in England. His silence in court coincides with far-right fueled riots sparked by his false identification as an asylum seeker. The trial is set for January 20.

Axel Rudakubana, the 18-year-old charged in a fatal stabbing incident at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in England, maintained his silence during a recent court appearance. The court entered not guilty pleas on his behalf to three counts of murder and 10 counts of attempted murder.

The attack occurred at a dance and yoga studio in Southport, leading to nationwide unrest in England and Northern Ireland, catalyzed by far-right extremists' false claims labeling Rudakubana as an asylum seeker. The violence resulted in over 1,200 arrests and severe injuries to more than 300 officers.

The failure of police to anticipate the widespread disorder was subject to criticism in a recent report. While Rudakubana was additionally charged with producing ricin and possessing terrorist-related materials, authorities have yet to establish a motive, leaving the terrorism classification unresolved.

(With inputs from agencies.)