Sara Stanger Appears on BBC Breakfast
“It’s clear that he fell through gaps in-between different agencies.”
Sara Stanger, Director and Head of Serious Injuries and Public Inquiries at Bond Turner, recently appeared on BBC Breakfast to discuss the devastating events which occurred in Southport on 29 July. Sara is representing the families of the three young victims who lost their lives: Alice da Silva Aguiar, Bebe King and Elsie Dot Stancombe.
During the interview, Sara shared that while the families are relieved to have reached this stage, they are deeply shocked by the revelations presented so far. Notably, 15 missed opportunities to intervene with the attacker came to light during the process, leaving the families questioning how these gaps could have been allowed to occur.
Sara emphasised that the families are eager for a detailed timeline of events, highlighting key questions:
- Were opportunities to prevent the attack missed?
- Could different actions have changed the tragic outcome?
Beyond seeking answers, the families want to play an active role in driving meaningful change to ensure such a tragedy never happens again.
The Importance of a statutory public inquiry
The swift announcement of a public inquiry was welcomed by the families and their legal representatives. Sara explained that a statutory inquiry has the extensive powers necessary to uncover the truth, with the ability to summon witnesses and examine evidence comprehensively. Drawing comparisons to other high-profile inquiries, such as the Thirlwall Inquiry into the Lucy Letby case, she noted that these investigations can be ‘”exhaustive” but are essential for justice and accountability.
While acknowledging that multi-agency involvement, including security services, may prolong the process, Sara expressed hope that interim reports and phased findings could provide timely recommendations to prevent further tragedies.
Addressing systemic gaps that allowed the attacker to evade intervention
A central focus of the inquiry will be identifying and addressing the systemic gaps that allowed the attacker to evade intervention. Sara noted that the perpetrator “fell through gaps in between different agencies,” highlighting the critical need to ensure that no individual posing a threat can slip through the cracks in the future.
Additionally, online safety emerged as a key area of concern. Sara discussed the troubling ease with which the attacker accessed disturbing materials online, raising urgent questions about the role of internet and social media providers in safeguarding vulnerable individuals and preventing radicalisation. She called for greater collaboration between providers, parents, and legislators to equip families with tools to protect their children effectively.
The families’ role in driving change during the inquiry
Sara closed the interview by stressing the importance of centering the families in the inquiry process. Their resilience, commitment to understanding what happened, and determination to create a safer society reflect their strength in the face of unimaginable loss.
Bond Turner will continue to support the families, advocating for transparency, accountability, and change.
