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EXPLOSION AFTER CONCERT

A bomb disposal squad at the scene of the incident. Image: EPA

BLAST HORROR: 19 killed in Manchester

MANCHESTER, May 23, 2017

At least 19 people have been killed and more than 50 injured in a suspected terror attack at Manchester Arena in Manchester, UK, following a major concert.

The blast happened at 22:35 BST on Monday following a pop concert by the US singer Ariana Grande, said a BBC report.

According to the Manchester Arena officials, the blast happened outside the venue in a public space.

A witness, attending the concert told news agency Reuters, that she felt a blast as she was leaving the arena. She also said that she heard people screaming and trying to escape.

“We were making our way out and when we were right by the door there was a massive explosion and everybody was screaming. It was a huge explosion – you could feel it in your chest. It was chaotic. Everybody was running and screaming and just trying to get out,” Catherine Macfarlane said.

UK Home Secretary Amber Rudd said it was "a barbaric attack, deliberately targeting some of the most vulnerable in our society".

Grande, 23, tweeted: 'Broken. From the bottom of my heart, I am so so sorry. I don't have words."

Paramedics at the scene told the BBC they had treated some of the wounded for "shrapnel-like injuries".

North West Ambulance Service said it had taken 59 casualties from the explosion to hospitals and treated a number of walking wounded.

In light of the attack the Conservatives, Labour, SNP and Liberal Democrats have all confirmed that Tuesday's campaigning in the general election has been suspended.

The prime minister has announced she will chair a meeting of the government's emergency Cobra committee at around 09:00 BST.

Theresa May said: "We are working to establish the full details" of what happened in Manchester. All our thoughts are with the victims and the families of those who have been affected."

Unconfirmed reports from two unnamed US officials suggested the attack was carried out by a suicide bomber.




Tags: blast | Manchester |

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