Theories behind the reduction of infections in England 2:01
(CNN) -
Several people were killed at the scene of a "serious firearms incident" in Plymouth, southwest England, on Thursday, according to a police statement.
The incident, however, is not being treated as one related to terrorism, said a local representative on Twitter.
In a statement, Devon and Cornwall Police reported: "Police were called in for a serious firearms incident on Biddick Drive in the Keyham area of Plymouth at around 6:10 pm today. Officers and staff arrived. At the scene of the events, there have been several fatalities and other injuries are receiving treatment. A critical incident has been declared. "
The right to carry firearms to defend oneself
Police added that the area was cordoned off and the situation is believed to be under control.
Police also called on the public not to "speculate or share images of the scene on social media or anywhere else."
advertising
Johnny Mercer, Member of Parliament (MP) for Plymouth Moor View, said in a tweet that the incident "is not related to terrorism," and that the suspect is not a fugitive.
British aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth is portrayed in the South China Sea
Plymouth Sutton and Devonport MP Luke Pollard stated in an earlier post on Twitter that "this looks like a very gloomy day for our city and our community."
Gun-related homicides are rare in the UK.
A mass shooting in 1996 led the UK to toughen the country's gun ownership laws and ban private gun ownership.
This is a developing story.
Shooting