Pictured: Boy, 16, killed after being stabbed by another pupil at a secondary school

The pupil, named locally as Bailey Gwynne, was taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary by ambulance after police were called to Cults Academy around 1.30pm

A 16-year-old schoolboy has died after being stabbed by another pupil at a school in Aberdeen today.

The pupil, named locally as Bailey Gwynne, was taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary by ambulance after police were called to Cults Academy around 1.30pm.

Doctors were unable to save him and he died in hospital later this afternoon.

Police have launched a murder investigation and are now questioning another 16-year-old who was detained over the incident.

Investigation: Police at the scene of the incident, which was reported to be a stabbing

The 16-year-old was injured after being stabbed in a school corridor by another pupil, according to Sky News.

Police Scotland said in a statement: 'Police Scotland can confirm that following a serious incident at Cults Academy this afternoon that sadly a 16-year-old boy has died.

'The next of kin of the victim have been informed. An extensive investigation is underway and a 16-year-old male has been detained in relation to the incident and is assisting police with enquiries.'

Chief Inspector Graeme Mackie added: '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 enquiry is underway 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.'

 

Police: Officers at the entrance to the school in the wake of the incident this afternoon

Witness Alexander Lees, 22, a former pupil who now works next door to the school, said: 'The staff car park was locked up, which it never is, and the police weren't answering questions.

'There were about four cars and a van, and after the pupils left 11 or 12 police officers walked out to the police van. Apparently it happened on the elevated walkway where people walk between classes.'

Parents arriving at the school today to find out what was happening were not allowed to enter the site.

Around 12 police cars, a dogs van, a riot van and a rapid response ambulance were at the scene in the wake of the incident. 

The school will be closed for the rest of the week as police continue their investigation.

Headteacher Anna Muirhead said: 'We are in a state of total shock.' 

'It's absolutely devastating news,' she added. 'It has been an isolated incident and is in the hands of the police. Our hearts go out to the family.'

A council spokesman added: '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.'

 

Bailey Gwynne, pictured right, was stabbed at lunchtime today at his school in Aberdeen