David Whyte: Police officer injured in Glasgow stabbing hailed as ‘selfless’
First minister Nicola Sturgeon praises response to attack at city centre hotel
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The police officer who was seriously injured in the multiple stabbing at a Glasgow hotel has been hailed for his “bravery, selflessness and commitment to protecting the public”.
Constable David Whyte, 42, remained in hospital in a critical but stable condition on Friday night following the incident at the Park Inn.
Five others, including a 17-year-old boy and people aged 18, 20, 38 and 53, were also hurt. Armed police shot dead the attacker.
Police Scotland chief constable Iain Livingstone paid tribute to PC Whyte and his fellow officers who responded to the attack.
“Terrible incidents such as we have seen today are, thankfully, very rare in Scotland,” he said in a statement.
“This event has understandably shocked the people of Glasgow, and indeed, the whole country.
“My thoughts and very best wishes are with those who have been injured and their families, including our colleague constable David Whyte who was seriously injured in the course of doing his duty. I offer my personal support to all those affected.
“Officers have once again run into danger to protect their fellow citizens. Their professionalism as police officers was outstanding. I pay tribute to their bravery, selflessness and commitment to protecting the public.”
First minister Nicola Sturgeon also thanked the police for their “quick and decisive actions” in containing the incident.
“It is another reminder of the courage and professionalism of our police officers who are willing to run towards danger in order to protect the lives of others,” she said.
Ms Sturgeon also said the police response “undoubtedly ensured that a very, very serious incident didn’t become much worse”.
Additional reporting by Press Association