8-year-old girl and teen student named among victims of Manchester bombing

Georgina Callander (left) with Ariana Grande in an image posted on Instagram two years ago. PHOTO: INSTAGRAM/GEORGINA.BETHANY

LONDON - An eight-year-old girl and a teen college student are among the victims of the attack at Manchester Arena on Monday (May 22).

The college student from Lancashire was the first victim to be named on Tuesday. Georgina Callander was among 22 people who died in an explosion at the end of a concert by US singer Ariana Grande, reported the BBC.

Callander's death was announced by Runshaw College in Leyland, which said it was doing so with "enormous sadness".

Callender, who was reported to be 18 years of age, was in the second year of a health and social care course.

"Our deepest sympathies, thoughts and prayers go out to all of Georgina's family, friends, and all of those affected by this loss," the college said. "We are offering all available support possible at this tragic time, including counselling with our dedicated student support team."

Saffie Rose Roussos, 8, from Preston was the second victim to be named at about 1.20pm local time.

The Guardian reported that she attended the concert with mother, Lisa Roussos, and sister Ashlee Bromwich.

Her head teacher at Tarleton Community Primary School described Saffie to reporters as "simply a beautiful little girl in every aspect of the word".

"She was loved by everyone and her warmth and kindness will be remembered fondly," he said, before adding that the school would be helping staff and pupils to cope with the shock of her passing.

Relatives desperate to know the fate of loved ones who are still missing after the terrorist attack are using social media to ask for help. An emergency number, 0161 856 9400, has also been set up to assist in their efforts.

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