Number of people killed in 'serious firearms incident' in Plymouth
Devon and Cornwall Police have since confirmed six people have died, one of whom is believed to be the offender
Last updated 13th Aug 2021
A number of people have been killed in a serious firearms incident in Plymouth.
Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed there were a number of fatalities at the scene and several other people are receiving treatment.
They have since confirmed three females and three males, one of whom is believed to be the offender, have died.
The incident happened in Biddick Drive, in the Keyham area of Plymouth at around 6.10pm today (Thursday 12th August).
The force said a critical incident had been declared, the area cordoned off, and it believes the situation is “contained”.
Local MP Johnny Mercer tweeted that the incident is “not terror related”.
In a statement, the police also appealed for people not to speculate or share pictures of the scene on social media or anywhere else.
Significant resources deployed to Plymouth
South Western Ambulance Service tweeted to say "significant" resources were deployed just after 6pm on Thursday (12th August).
That included Hazardous Area Response Teams. multiple ambulances, air ambulances, doctors and senior paramedics.
'Horrendous and so sad'
One witness, who lives near Biddick Drive and gave her name as Sharron, told the BBC the incident was “horrendous and so sad”.
She said: “Firstly, there was shouting, followed by gunshots – three, possibly four to begin with.
“This was when the shooter kicked in the door of a house and randomly started shooting … he ran from the house shooting as he ran and proceeded to shoot at a few people in the Linear Park up from the drive.”
MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, Luke Pollard, tweeted: 'Really worrying news coming out of Keyham in #plymouth. Please can everyone stay safe, stay indoors and follow police advice'.
He later posted: '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'.
Plymouth Moor View MP Johnny Mercer said he was "aware of a serious and tragic incident unfolding in Plymouth" and urged people to "obey all instructions from the police".
He later 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".
Home Secretary Priti Patel tweeted saying she had spoken to the Chief Constable:
Devon and Cornwall's Police and Crime Commissioner, Alison Hernandez, says she is aware of tonight's tragic incident and her thoughts go out to those affected.
Labour leader Keir Starmer added that tragedy has hit Keyham, and praised the emergency services who responded.
Plymouth City Council is urging people not to speculate or share photos on social media.
Plymouth Argyle have also paid tribute to all those affected by tonight's incident.
The Plymouth C Section Response Team said: "A horrific incident in #Keyham area of #Plymouth tonight. Please do NOT share any images or video on social media of what has occurred. Please do not speculate about what happened.
"If you have any info that can assist, please contact Devon and Cornwall Police."