An East Ayrshire hospital was locked down as police dealt with a major incident within its grounds and two others in the area.
The alarm was first raised at University Hospital Crosshouse in Kilmarnock at around 7.45pm on Thursday.
STV NewsThe second incident took place around 20 minutes later within the town’s Portland Street.
The third, a serious road crash, happened on the A76 at around 8.30pm.
Officers said they are “potentially linked” and are not being treated as terrorist-related.
A force spokesperson added: “Enquiries into these incidents are at an early stage and these areas have been cordoned off at this time.
“There is no cause for concern for the wider community.”
Ambulances were diverted to University Hospital Ayr while the lockdown at University Hospital Crosshouse was in place.
Crawford McGuffie, NHS Ayrshire and Arran medical director, said: “Following the police incident earlier this evening, University Hospital Crosshouse was put under lockdown.
“Police Scotland have confirmed the risk to patients, staff and visitors to the hospital is minimal, and so this lockdown has been lifted.
“There remains a large police presence on the grounds of the hospital.
“We would like to reassure anyone coming to the hospital, in particular to any patients or staff coming on shift, that Police Scotland have confirmed it is safe to do so.
“However, if you are worried, please speak to the onsite Police Scotland officers.
“As this is a Police Scotland incident, we are unable to comment any further at this time.”
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon tweeted: “My thoughts are with those involved in these very serious incidents in Crosshouse/Kilmarnock.
“Please help Ayrshire Police do their job by following the advice to stay away from the areas affected.”
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