‘Number of fatalities & injuries’ after serious incident at Manchester Arena

May 22, 2017 at 19:52

Loud sirens can be heard throughout Manchester and a heavy presence of police and emergency vehicles are in the area.

Greater Manchester Police have confirmed a “number of fatalities” and injuries following a "serious incident" at an arena where an Ariana Grande concert was being held.

LIVE UPDATES: Manchester Arena incident

A large number of ambulances and police vehicles are at the scene following a number of unconfirmed reports of explosion-like noises. However, no reports of an explosion have yet been officially confirmed.

“Officers are at Manchester Arena following reports of an explosion within the foyer area of the stadium at 10.30pm this evening,” British Transport Police said in a statement. “Emergency services are at the scene and we are working to establish more information regarding the explosion and will provide further updates as soon as possible.”

Several concert-goers reported hearing loud bangs which some have speculated may have been from the popping of large gas-filled balloons.