Southport killer's taxi driver took another fare before calling 999

He tells of his 'mortal terror' and regret

- By Chris Riches

THE TAXI driver who dropped off the Southport killer at the dance class where three children were murdered said he regrets fleeing and waiting 50 minutes to dial 999 - despite hearing "bloodcurdling screams".

Gary Poland, 56, drove away from the scene and picked up another fare before calling police back at his home, an inquiry heard.

He described hearing screams and seeing children fleeing the building just after killer Axel Rudakubana had left his cab without paying on July 29, 2024.

Yesterday, Mr Poland explained to the Southport Inquiry that he panicked, terrified that Rudakubana was an active gunman.

Giving evidence over video link at Liverpool Town Hall, he said he threatened to call police when Rudakubana refused to pay and assumed he had gone to get cash when the teen entered the Hart Space, where the class was taking place.