The First Minister has expressed her deep gratitude to the emergency services following Friday’s stabbing attack in Glasgow city centre.
Nicola Sturgeon took to Twitter to say it was the “toughest of days for Glasgow” and that she was proud to call the city home.
Armed police shot dead a male suspect at the Park Inn by Radisson hotel in West George Street on Friday afternoon.
Two sources close to police earlier told STV News that three people were killed. But it was later confirmed that just one person died – the male suspect.
Earlier on Friday, the First Minister described the situation as “truly dreadful”.
Sturgeon wrote: “My thoughts are with everyone involved. I am being updated as the situation becomes clearer.
“Please help the emergency services do their jobs by staying away from the area – and please don’t share unconfirmed information.”
The FM later paid tribute those harmed during the incident and thanked emergency services.
“First and foremost my thoughts are with all those people who have been caught up in this terrible incident, particularly the six injured people taken to hospital for treatment, as well as residents and staff at the hotel.
“I also want to thank all of those police officers whose quick and decisive actions contained the incident – one of whom was among those taken to hospital – as well as the work of the other emergency services.
‘My thoughts are with all those people who have been caught up in this terrible incident, particularly the six injured people taken to hospital for treatment, as well as residents and staff at the hotel.’
Nicola Sturgeon
“The justice secretary and I have been kept informed through the afternoon and briefed by the chief constable.
“While such a serious incident is rare in Scotland it is another reminder of the courage and professionalism of our police officers who are willing to run towards danger in order to protect the lives of others.
“Clearly there is already much speculation around this incident, which remains under investigation.
“I would urge everyone to avoid such speculation, to not share potentially harmful or upsetting material on social media and to follow police advice while investigations are underway.”
Justice secretary Humza Yousaf also urged people not to speculate on the incident.
He tweeted: “I cannot emphasise this enough – please do not speculate on any of the details around the Glasgow incident.
“I have seen many press reports – all well intentioned I am sure – that are, as things stand, inaccurate.
“Please follow @GreaterGlasgPol & @policescotland for accurate info.”
He later added: “Hoping & praying that they all recover. Thoughts continue to be with all those affected.”
Prime Minister Boris Johnson tweeted: “Deeply saddened by the terrible incident in Glasgow, my thoughts are with all the victims and their families.
“Thank you to our brave emergency services who are responding.”
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer added: “Extremely concerning reports about an incident in the West George Street area of Glasgow.
“My thoughts are with all of those who are involved. Please follow the @GreaterGlasgPol advice and avoid the area.”
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