Chaos erupted in Edinburgh’s Calder area this morning as armed police responded to reports of a man carrying two large knives. Several schools, including Wester Hailes High School, went into lockdown, sealing their doors while officers, including firearms units and dog handlers, rushed to the scene before 9am.
Shocking video circulated online showed the suspect brandishing two large blades in the street as police arrived. Residents expressed fears that multiple people may have been stabbed during the frightening incident.
William Ramsay, a local resident, said the man smashed up a nearby shop and may have stabbed two people, although this has not been confirmed. “Armed police and dogs have been here for around two hours,” Ramsay told the Press Association.
Wester Hailes High School quickly sent a lockdown alert to parents reassuring them that their children were safe. The message read: “The school is in lockdown following an incident in the community this morning. The children are safe. We will update you in 30 minutes.”
Locals took to social media to share their concerns and updates, with comments such as: “School on lockdown as well. Hope everyone is okay.” and “The police are dealing with it now. Armed response was here an hour ago.”
Police Scotland urged the public to avoid the Calder area while the incident was ongoing. A spokesperson said: “The public is being advised to avoid the Calder area of Edinburgh following reports of a man with a bladed weapon. Police, including firearms officers, are in attendance.”
Despite reports of injuries, the number and severity remain unclear. At the time of writing, no arrests have been confirmed as officers continue their investigation.
Originally published by UKNIP.
