There have been a “number of fatalities” in a “serious firearms incident” in Plymouth, in Devon, this evening (Thursday, August 12) and “several” other casualties are receiving treatment.
The “serious and tragic” incident is “not terror related”, an MP for the city has said.
The suspect involved is not “on the run” Johnny Mercer, MP for Plymouth, Moor View, added as he urged the public to remain calm.
Emergency services are at the scene in Keyham, where residents reported hearing gunshots.
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Luke Pollard, MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, said he was awaiting confirmation of the number of victims, saying the situation looked like “a very grim day for our city and our community”.
Mr Mercer tweeted: “The incident is not terror related, and neither is the suspect on the run in Plymouth.
“Remain calm. It is for the police to confirm further details. Do not repost chatter or gossip; work with them. We have the best cops in the land.”
In an earlier tweet, Mr Mercer said he was “aware of a serious and tragic incident unfolding in Plymouth.”
He added: “Please obey all instructions from the police and do not post rumour or speculation on social media.”
A police spokesperson said: “Police were called to a serious firearms incident in Biddick Drive, in the Keyham area of Plymouth at around 6.10pm today.
“Officers and ambulance staff attended. There have been a number of fatalities at the scene and several other casualties are receiving treatment.
“A critical incident has been declared. The area has been cordoned off and police believe the situation is contained.
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“Road closures are in place so please avoid the area.
“We are appealing to the public not to speculate or share pictures of the scene on social media or anywhere else.”
The South Western Ambulance Service said it was called at just after 6pm.
The ambulance service tweeted: “We responded to the incident with a significant number of resources, including Hazardous Area Response Teams (HART), multiple ambulances, air ambulances, multiple doctors and senior paramedics.
“We will provide an update here in due course.”
Home Secretary Priti Patel tweeted: “The incident in Plymouth is shocking and my thoughts are with those affected. I have spoken to the Chief Constable and offered my full support.
“I urge everyone to remain calm, follow police advice and allow our emergency services to get on with their jobs.”
*For live updates from the scene from our sister site in Plymouth click here.
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