An 18-year-old individual named McKenzie Morgan from Cwmbran, South Wales, has been sentenced to 14 months in jail for planning a copycat attack on a children’s dance school in Southport and expressing intentions to bomb an Oasis concert in Cardiff. Morgan, who can now be named and pictured following his 18th birthday, had created a note on his phone listing potential targets for attacks, including the dance school near his residence. He also mentioned to others his plan to target the Oasis gig, which took place on July 4 last year.
During the court proceedings at the Old Bailey, Morgan pleaded guilty to possessing a document useful for terrorism. He disclosed to a psychiatric nurse his desire to carry out an attack similar to that of Axel Rudakubana, who was convicted for murdering three young girls at a dance class in Southport in July 2024. Morgan had expressed interest in creating ricin, a deadly toxin, and had shared messages praising Rudakubana on Snapchat.
Morgan’s actions came to light when a Snapchat contact reported him to the authorities, leading to his arrest. Subsequent investigations uncovered a terrorist manual on his electronic devices and mobile phones. He had also conducted online searches on bombs, poison, and violent methods. Despite claiming that his intentions were only meant to shock, the evidence presented in court suggested otherwise.
Prosecutors highlighted Morgan’s admiration for the Southport attacker and his detailed plans to carry out violence. The court was informed that Morgan posed a risk to both himself and others due to his concerning behavior and statements. Following the sentencing, Judge Sarah Whitehouse emphasized the need for close monitoring and supervision of Morgan upon his release to prevent further incidents and ensure his safety and that of the community.