A gunman murdered at least two people during a rampage through Plymouth this evening before being reportedly shot dead by armed police.

       Officers responded just after 6pm following reports of a man shooting people in an area near St Levan's Road.

       Whitehall sources confirmed there had been “multiple casualties” but said the incident was not being treated as terror related.

       Eyewitnesses at the scene claimed the man had “gone beserk” before opening fire.

       Home Secretary Priti Patel has described the incident as "shocking".

       According to reports, armed police were at a block of flats in Stonehouse in the south-west area of the city.

       Eyewitnesses claimed that they heard "loud bangs" and gun shots".

       A statement from Devon and Cornwall Police read: "Police were called to a serious firearms incident in Biddick Drive, in the Keyham area of Plymouth at around 6.10pm today [Thursday 12 August].

       "Officers and ambulance staff attended. There have been a number of fatalities at the scene and several other casualties are receiving treatment.

       "A critical incident has been declared. The area has been cordoned off and police believe the situation is contained.

       "Road closures are in place so please avoid the area. "We are appealing to the public not to speculate or share pictures of the scene on social media or anywhere else."

       The South Western Ambulance Service said it was called at just after 6pm on Thursday to an "ongoing incident" in Keyham.

       It tweeted: "We responded to the incident with a significant number of resources, including Hazardous Area Response Teams (HART), multiple ambulances, air ambulances, multiple doctors and senior paramedics.

       "We will provide an update here in due course."

       Johnny Mercer, Conservative MP for Plymouth Moor View said: "I am aware of a serious and tragic incident unfolding in Plymouth.

       "Please obey all instructions from the Police and do not post rumour or speculation on social media. I will post news when I have it."

       "The incident is not terror related, and neither is the suspect on the run in Plymouth."

       Drake Circus Shopping Centre in Plymouth was evacuated as a precaution.

       Meanwhile local Labour MP Luke Pollard said he is "awaiting the confirmation of the number of victims."

       "This looks like a very grim day for our city and our community," he added. Devon and Cornwall Police have been contacted for more information.

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