Manchester Arena blast: 19 dead & 50 injured in explosion at Ariana Grande concert

AT LEAST nineteen people have been killed following an explosion at an Ariana Grande pop concert at Manchester Arena on Monday evening, according to Greater Manchester Police.

Greater Manchester Police have confirmed that 19 people have been killed and around 50 injured in the blast.

They have also confirmed that the blast, which happened outside the venue in a public area, is currently being treated as a terrorist incident until police know otherwise.

Two US officials have claimed the blast was caused by a suicide bomber, although this has not been confirmed.

Emergency services have rushed to the scene and the area around the stadium has been cordoned off.

One Twitter user wrote: "Honestly worst night of my existence. Just kept running from Manchester Arena for my life."

Another added: [Just got out of Manchester Arena after seeing Ariana perform. There was a loud bang when the lights came on & everyone ran out screaming."

British Transport Police said: "Officers are at Manchester Arena following reports of an explosion within the foyer area of the stadium at 10.30pm this evening.

"Emergency services are at the scene and we are working to establish more information regarding the explosion and will provide further updates as soon as possible."

Social media users are tweeting '#RoomForManchester' to offer places to stay for the night for those unable to get home following the incident.

Facebook has activated its safety check for people in the area to let friends and family know they are safe.

A controlled explosion of a second suspect device has been carried out in the Cathedral Gardens area near Manchester Arena.

Police have said the controlled explosion was carried out as a precaution, and that the destroyed item turned out to be abandoned clothing.

Police have asked people not to call the emergency services unless they are in a life-threatening condition as authorities try to deal with the incident.

Hospitals are reportedly treating people with "shrapnel type injuries".

Prime Minister There May said: "We are working to establish the full details of what is being treated by the police as an appalling terrorist attack.

"All our thoughts are with the victims and the families of those who have been affected."