GLASGOW — An officer was stabbed and a suspect shot dead as police flooded central Glasgow during a violent incident in Scotland's largest city on Friday, police said.
Six other people were in hospital being treated for injuries, Assistant Chief Constable Steve Johnson said in a statement, adding that police were not looking for anyone else in relation to the violence.
"The individual who was shot by armed police has died," he added.
The injured officer, described as being in a critical but stable condition, was also being treated in hospital.
Greater Glasgow Police said on Twitter that the "situation" was contained and "there is no danger to the general public."
Video and images on social media appeared to show at least a dozen police — some of them armed —and emergency vehicles on West George Street. Most British police do not carry firearms.
The normally busy street is close to a large train station and several restaurants and hotels. It has now been closed off, according to Glasgow police, who asked the public to avoid the area.
Nevertheless, dozens of Glaswegians milled near the police cordon shortly after the stabbing and shooting.
"I've seen stabbings in Glasgow before. Plenty of them. But not with this kind of armed response," said Stephen McLean, 51, who was among the dozens gathered nearby. "It's in a decent part of the city ... where you usually feel safe."
The First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon said the reports were "truly dreadful," and that her "thoughts are with everyone involved." She also urged the public not to share "unconfirmed information."
Scotland has its own devolved lawmaking powers from Westminster. It is able to legislate on matters of tax, education and policing, among other issues.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson also said on Twitter he was "deeply saddened by the terrible incident," and thanked the "brave emergency services who are responding."
Scotland, like the rest of the U.K., is in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.
The country began easing lockdown measures this month, allowing small groups to meet up in parks and re-opening some shops and playgrounds.
Many businesses had not yet re-opened, so it's likely fewer people than usual were in the town center.
Alasdair Lane reported from Glasgow; and Adela Suliman reported from London.
