‘Very serious incident’ on campus at De Montfort University

De Montfort University in Leicester has said students and staff are being supported amid a ‘very serious incident’ on its campus.

The nature of the incident is currently unclear, but a number of busy roads in the centre of the city have been cordoned off by Leicestershire Police.

One person was taken to hospital after East Midlands Ambulance Service dispatchedan ambulance car, three crewed ambulances and a responder from the air ambulance.

A spokesperson for the university said: ‘We are aware of a very serious incident on our campus.

‘We are working with Leicestershire Police as they launch an immediate investigation.

‘Our thoughts are with everyone affected by what has happened. We are offering direct support to students and staff who witnessed the incident.’

East Midlands Ambulance Service said: ‘The caller reported a medical emergency. We sent a paramedic in an ambulance car, three crewed ambulances and a responder from the air ambulance was also in attendance.

‘We transported one patient to Leicester Royal Infirmary.’

Leicestershire Police posted on social media last night that Oxford Street and Grange Lane, near the university, were closed ‘while we deal with a police incident’.

Oxford Street remain closed this morning, along with a number of other roads in the area:

• Infirmary Road
• Infirmary Square
• Carlton Street
• York Road
• Lower Brown Street
• The Gateway
• Gosling Street

The section of the city that has been closed by police also cuts off access to Leicester Royal Infirmary, with staff asked to show their ID to officers.

LBC News reported staff at student accommodation had told police that parents were ‘calling them in tears as they can’t get hold of their children’.

Patients with appointments at the Leicester Royal Infirmary have been warned of disruption throughout the day.

University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust said in a statement: ‘Due to road closures currently in place near the hospital following an overnight incident, there will be traffic disruption in the area this morning.

“Please attend your appointment and allow extra time for your journey. ‘Follow local diversions and police instructions. If you are delayed, please contact your clinic or department where possible.’

Leicester West MP Liz Kendall urged people not to speculate as Leicester Police still have not confirmed what has happaned.

She said: ‘I am aware that a serious incident took place on De Montfort University Campus yesterday evening, and that a police cordon remains in place this morning.

‘There are no further details currently and I would urge everyone to refrain from speculating whilst investigations continue.

‘De Montfort University are providing support to students and staff who witnessed the event.

‘My thoughts are with those affected by what has happened.’

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