Police swarm university campus in Leicester after 'very serious incident'

The university said it is offering support to students and staff who "witnessed" what happened.

It said in a statement: "We are aware of a very serious incident on our campus this evening.

"We are working with Leicestershire Police as they launch an immediate investigation.

"Our thoughts are with everyone affected by what has happened.

"We are offering direct support to students and staff who witnessed the incident.”

Leicestershire Police are yet to give details of the incident.

A force spokesman said: "There isn’t anything we’re able to confirm at this time.

"We hope to issue a statement on our force website and social media channels in due course."

In a statement in the early hours of this morning, police urged motorists to avoid the area, warning of several road closures.

The force said in a statement: "Due to police scene preservation in place following an incident in Oxford Street, Leicester, last night (Tuesday, February 3), there are a number of road closures in place.

"These closures are expected to remain on for a number of hours meaning there will be traffic disruption in the area during the morning rush hour.

"Motorist travelling into the city are advised to avoid the area if possible. If you are travelling into the city, please allow extra time.

"The roads are closed to vehicles and pedestrians."

Reports suggest the incident could be a triple stabbing.

One De Montford University student who lives in the area said he remains uncertain about the incident.

Prince Sandhu, age 25, told Leicestershire Live: "I live around that area and I've seen lots of police but I wasn't around last night when it happened so I don't know what's been going on.

"Nobody I've spoken to knows either. It seems like a lot of police."

The road closures have disrupted access to the nearby Leicester Royal Infirmary hospital.

Police said NHS staff will still be given access to the hospital's car park but will need to present their ID to officers at the scene.

Leicester's Hospitals said in a statement: "Travel disruption affecting access to the Leicester Royal Infirmary this morning.

"Due to road closures currently in place near the hospital following an overnight incident, there will be traffic disruption in the area this morning."

"Thank you to everyone for their patience and understanding while the police carry out their work," it added.

The hospital group advised patients with appointments this morning to still attend but all extra travel time.

It advised that if patients experience delays, they should contact the relevant clinic or department.

Local councillor Patrick Kitterick said his thoughts are with "anyone impacted".

He told GB News: "I imagine it must be very serious as the road closure is affecting road access to Leicester Royal Infirmary which is Leicester's busiest hospital and is home to an extremely busy A&E.

"My thoughts go out to anyone impacted by this incident as it does sound very serious."