A 16-year-old boy has died after being stabbed at a secondary school in Aberdeen and police have launched a murder investigation.
Police were called to a “serious incident” at Cults Academy in Aberdeen at 1.30pm and the boy was rushed to hospital where he later died. Another 16-year-old boy is in custody.
More than 1,100 pupils attend Cults Academy, which is one of the best performing secondary schools in Scotland.
According to its website the school won the Sunday Times Scottish state secondary school of the year award in 2008.
Police say that the next of kin of the victim have been informed and an “extensive investigation” is under way.
The 16-year-old male who has been detained in relation to the incident is assisting police with their enquiries.
Chief Inspector Graeme Mackie said: “This is a shocking and extraordinary incident for Aberdeen and firstly our thoughts are with the family and friends of the boy who has sadly lost his life today.
“A full and thorough inquiry has been launched and there will be a police presence in the area for the foreseeable future.
“We are working closely with the education authorities and wider community as I am sure this incident will be felt not only in Aberdeen but much further afield.”
An Aberdeen City Council spokeswoman said: “We are aware of a serious incident at Cults Academy today. Police are on site.
“Due to the nature of this incident, we will not be issuing further comment.”
Scotland’s First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, said on Twitter: “All my thoughts are with the family & friends of the young man who has tragically died at Cults Academy today.”
Holyrood’s Education Secretary Angela Constance said: “I’m deeply saddened by this terrible news and my thoughts are with the pupil’s family and friends.
“Aberdeen City Council has arranged for support to be available to the school’s pupils and teachers. We remain in close contact with the council and stand ready to provide any help that may be needed.
“As this is a live police investigation we are unable to comment further at this stage.”
An Aberdeen City Council spokeswoman said later: “It is with shock and sadness that we can confirm that a pupil of Cults Academy has died following an incident at the school earlier today.
“Our heartfelt sympathies are extended to the friends and family. We will be providing support to pupils, teachers, parents and the community in the coming days.
“Police Scotland is on site and they will provide further updates as required.”