A HEAD teacher has tonight paid tribute to an Aberdeen schoolboy, who died following an incident at Cults Academy this afternoon.
The 16-year-old died in hospital following the incident, which police are treating as a murder inquiry.
One person has been detained by police and is helping police with their inquiries.
The incident happened at around 1.30pm.
Anna Muirhead, the school’s head, said: “The whole school has been shocked and saddened by the death of a pupil at our school.
“He was a very gentle and caring boy, with many friends. Everybody in the school is devastated and our thoughts are with his friends and family at what is a very difficult time.”
Five police cars, a dogs van, a riot van and a rapid response ambulance were sent to the scene.
Chief Inspector Graeme Mackie said: “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.”
You can read our full statement on the Cults Academy incident on our website: https://t.co/4ymAaSfwmF
— NorthEastPolice (@NorthEPolice) October 28, 2015
An Aberdeen City Council spokesperson said: “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.”
Aberdeen City Council later said that the school would be closed for the rest of the week.
A helpline has been set up for anyone affected by today’s events. The number is 01224 264299 at it will be open at 8am tomorrow.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon tweeted: “All my thoughts are with the family and friends of the young man who has tragically died at Cults Academy today.”
Holyrood’s Education Secretary Angela Constance said: “I’m deeply saddened by this terrible news and my thoughts are with the pupil’s family and friends.
“Aberdeen City Council has arranged for support to be available to the school’s pupils and teachers. We remain in close contact with the council and stand ready to provide any help that may be needed.
“As this is a live police investigation we are unable to comment further at this stage.”
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