BREAKING: Police confirm a ‘number of fatalities after shooting’ in Plymouth

Steve Hopkins

‘Critical incident’ declared following ‘serious firearms incident’ in Keyham district

Police in Plymouth on Thursday night confirmed a “number of fatalities” following a “serious firearms incident” in the Keyham district.

“There have been a number of fatalities at the scene and several other casualties are receiving treatment,” Devon and Cornwall Police said on Twitter.

“A critical incident has been declared. The area has been cordoned off and police believe the situation is contained,” the force added.

Plymouth Moor View MP Johnny Mercer suggested on Twitter that the incident was not “terror related”.

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.

— Rt Hon Johnny Mercer (@JohnnyMercerUK) August 12, 2021

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.”

Police said they were called to Biddick Drive at about 6.10pm. The South Western ambulance said they were called to the scene a few minutes later.

“Hazardous Area Response Teams (HART), multiple ambulances, air ambulances, multiple doctors and senior paramedics” are all in attendance, it said in a statement.

Luke Pollard, MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, tweeted: “Really worrying news coming out of Keyham in #plymouth. Please can everyone stay safe, stay indoors and follow police advice.”

Pollard was quoted by the BBC as saying he had spoken to some local residents and the police “and the situation looks very serious indeed”.

“Please avoid speculation and please do not share images of any victims. Please keep our community in your thoughts and prayers.”

He later tweeted an update, saying: “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.”

A number of roads in the area are said to be closed and police vehicles are on the scene.

This is a breaking news story. More details to follow.