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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Joe Middleton and Tom Batchelor

Plymouth: ‘Serious’ incident underway as multiple ambulances respond to emergency

James Dadzitis / SWNS

Emergency services are attending a “serious and tragic” incident in Plymouth amid reports of gunshots being fired.

South Western Ambulance Service said it was called at just after 6pm on Thursday to an “ongoing incident” in Keyham.

A number of air ambulances were filmed in the area and unverified video showed a person lying on the ground covered with a blanket.

Sky News reported that the incident resulted in “multiple fatalities”.

Local MPs Luke Pollard and Johnny Mercer have advised people to stay safe and follow police advice.

Mr Mercer, Plymouth MP, said on Twitter that the incident was “not terror related, and neither is the suspect on the run in Plymouth”.

Eyewitnesses have claimed to have heard “loud bangs” and “gun shots”.

South Western 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.”

A number of emergency service vehicles are currently at the scene and roads have been closed.

Priti Patel, the home secretary, 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.” 

Local Labour MP Luke Pollard said he was “awaiting confirmation of number of victims but this looks like a very grim day for our city and our community”.

Mr Mercer earlier tweeted: “I am aware of a serious and tragic incident unfolding in Plymouth.

“Please obey all instructions from the Police and do not post rumour or speculation on social media. I will post news when I have it.”

The PlymouthLive news outlet reported that police dogs were on the scene and that two of the air ambulances had landed at Derriford Hospital in the city.

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