A number of people have been killed in a shooting in Plymouth, police have confirmed.
The tragedy happened shortly after 6pm, when armed police were dispatched to a block of flats in the Devon city.
Three air ambulances landed in a nearby park, Plymouth Live reports.
MP Johnny Mercer later said the incident is not believed to be terror-related, and a suspect is not at large.
Devon and Cornwall Police said in a statement: “Police were called to a serious firearms incident in Biddick Drive, in the Keyham area of Plymouth at around 6.10pm today [Thursday 12 August].
“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.
“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.”
He wrote on Twitter: "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."
Earlier this evening South West Ambulance Service said in statement: "We were called at 18:12 to an ongoing incident in Plymouth.
"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.
"Several police officers and paramedics are at the scene this evening."
Luke Pollard, MP for Plymouth, said: "Really worrying news coming out of Keyham in Plymouth.
"Please can everyone stay safe, stay indoors and follow police advice."
He later wrote in a follow-up tweet: "Awaiting confirmation of number of victims but this looks like a very grim day for our city and our community.
"Please can I ask that you think of the families and our community and not share any images or videos of any of the victims. #keyham"
In a longer Facebook post, the Labour shadow environment secretary said "there looks to be a very serious situation happening in Keyham".
"I've spoken to some local residents and the Police and the situation looks very serious indeed," he adds.
Conservative Plymouth Moor View MP Johnny Mercer said on Twitter : "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."
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.”
