Boy, 14, dies following 'isolated incident' at school in West Lothian

A 14-year-old boy has died after an “isolated” incident at a West Lothian school.

Emergency services were called shortly after 1pm on Tuesday to St Kentigern’s Academy in Blackburn to a report of concern for the schoolboy.

The school said that the incident was “isolated within the school grounds”.

The teenager was taken to hospital by ambulance, but died a short time later.

The school said that emotional support and signposting for students affected by the incident had been set up.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 1.20pm on Tuesday, June 6, 2023, officers were called to a report of concern for a 14-year-old boy at a school in the Bathgate area.

“He was taken by ambulance to hospital for treatment, but died a short time later.

“His family have been informed and enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the death.”

A statement posted on the school’s website said: “We can confirm that emergency services were called to St Kentigern’s Academy earlier today following an isolated incident within the school grounds.

“All parents of pupils directly affected have been contacted and we are assisting the relevant authorities with their ongoing enquiries.

“We have set up emotional support and signposting for students affected by today’s incident and are unable to comment further at this time due to an ongoing police investigation.”

Local MSP, Fiona Hyslop said: “My deepest condolences are with the family and friends of the pupil who has died. I hope those closest to him are given the privacy they deserve at this tragic time.

“This will be an incredibly difficult time for everyone – not least the pupils, teachers and staff at St Kentigern’s Academy. The support being offered at the school will be crucially important right now – and, in my capacity as their MSP, I will do everything I can to help the community through this awful situation.”

In a statement, headteacher Andrew Sharkey said: “Everyone in our school community has been devastated to learn of the tragic death of one of our students.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends and we extend our deepest condolences and offers of support.

“We have set up on going emotional support and signposting for students and staff affected by this tragic news.

“We would like to respect the family’s privacy at this incredibly painful time.

“We are assisting the relevant authorities with their investigation to establish the facts and we will not be making any further comment at this time.”