Counter terrorism police confirmed they are working "at a rapid pace" to establish what happened after a taxi exploded outside the Liverpool Women's Hospital.
Merseyside Police confirmed they were called to the scene on Crown Street at 10.59am today (Sunday, November 14) following reports of a car on fire.
In a statement given outside the hospital chief constable Serena Kennedy confirmed one person had died and another had been injured and that counter terrorism police are now investigating.
READ MORE: Live updates as emergency services called to Liverpool Women's Hospital
It has not been declared a terror incident at this stage but GMP tweeted an update, they said: "Counter Terrorism Police North West can confirm we are investigating this incident with support from Merseyside Police, and are keeping an open mind as to what caused the explosion.
"We’re working at a rapid pace to establish the circumstances and will update in due course."
Liverpool Women's remains cordoned off by emergency services and the public has been urged to remain calm "but vigilant".
The hospital has been closed to all visitors and some patients were evacuated to other hospitals.
Chief constable Serena Kennedy said: "We can confirm that at 10.59am today (Sunday, 14 November) police were called to reports of a car explosion at the Women's Hospital in Liverpool city centre.
"Police immediately attended, along with Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service and the North West Regional Ambulance Service.
"Unfortunately, we can confirm that one person has died and another has been taken to hospital where he is being treated for his injuries, which thankfully are not life threatening.
"So far we understand that the car involved was a taxi which pulled up at the hospital shortly before the explosion occurred.
"Work is still going on to establish what has happened, and could take some time before we are in a position to confirm anything.
"We are keeping an open mind as to what caused the explosion but given how it has happened, out of caution, Counter Terrorism Police are leading the investigation supported by Merseyside Police.
"The emergency services have well-rehearsed plans for dealing with major incidents. Our response is ongoing at the hospital and will be for some time. Cordons are in place, and there are some road closures.
"We have triggered our information channels - to inform the local community and businesses about what information we do have and can provide
"We would urge the public to remain calm (but vigilant). To keep updated on what is happening, keep watching the news and checking the Merseyside Police website."
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