United Kingdom: At least 19 dead in suspected terror attack at Manchester Arena May 22 /update 2

Event

At least 19 people were killed and approximately 50 more were injured in an explosion that occurred in the foyer of Manchester Arena in Manchester at approximately 22:40 (local time) on the evening of Monday, May 22; the incident occurred at the end of a concert being given by pop singer Ariana Grande. The cause of the blast has not been confirmed, but police are reportedly treating the incident as a terrorist attack. A controlled detonation was carried out by authorities several hours after the initial explosion, but police have since confirmed that the item was found to be not a threat. The nearby Manchester VIctoria railway station was evacuated and remains closed at least until Tuesday. Police operations are ongoing and people have been advised to avoid the area surrounding the arena.

Advice

All those present in Manchester are advised to avoid the affected area while emergency response teams are on site and to monitor developments to the situation. Adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and report any suspicious objects or behavior.