Aberdeen school stabbing death: Murder probe after 16-year-old Bailey Gwynne killed in attack

Police Scotland said a 16-year-old boy had been detained by police

A murder inquiry has been opened after 16-year-old pupil Bailey Gwynne died after being stabbed at the Cults Academy school in Aberdeen.

Another 16-year-old boy was detained shortly after police and emergency services arrived at the school in the west of the city at around 1:30PM on Tuesday afternoon.

Police Scotland confirmed that Gwynne had died, and said they have now launched an "extensive" investigation into the stabbing.

Aberdeen 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 inquiry has been launched and there will be a police presence in the area for the foreseeable future."

Bailey Gwynne, the 16-year-old killed at Cults Academy (Facebook)

"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."

Bailey was taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary by ambulance shortly after the incident with serious injuries. He died a short time later.

The detained 16-year-old is said to be helping police with their inquries.

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon expressed her sympathies on Twitter, writing: "All my thoughts are with the family & friends of the young man who has tragically died at Cults Academy today."

Aberdeen City Council said that they would be "providing support" to pupils, staff and the local community in the coming days, and said Police Scotland would be giving further updates. Nearby Cults Parish Church said it was opening tonight to offer support to those affected.

As reported by the BBC, Cults Academy head teacher Anna Muirhead says the victim was a "gentle and caring" boy, and added the whole school was "totally devastated" by the day's events. She also confirmed that the school would be closed tomorrow.

Cults Academy's website described itself as a six-year comprehensive school with 1,050 pupils. It consistently gets some of the highest exam results in Scotland, and recently topped the league table.