Manchester 'explosion': Jeremy Corbyn responds to reported blast after multiple deaths confirmed
He called the incident 'terrible'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Labour Party Leader Jeremy Corbyn has tweeted concerns after reports have surfaced indicating that two explosions have gone off at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester.
"Terrible incident in Manchester," Mr Corbyn wrote. "My thoughts are with all those affected and our brilliant emergency services."
Greater Manchester Police said that there were several casualties following the incident but did not confirm if the sounds were actual explosions, gun shots, or even just balloons popping that incited the panic.
Several eye witnesses did, however, indicate that there had been explosions of some sort. One man, calling into the BBC, said that he had been thrown around 30 feet after a blast went off.
Footage of the aftermath of the reported explosions shows thousands of young people running to leave the arena, screaming and covered in blood. The loud bangs weren't heard until after the show had concluded and took place outside of the auditorium after the musician had left the stage.
"She finished her last song .. and we heard like a really basey bang, and all I can remember is just everyone ... was just running out," Josh, a concert-goer also interviewed by the BBC said. "People were covered in blood, some people were having a fight, it was quite scary."
The venue has a max capacity of 21,000 people, though it was not certain how many were in attendance. The majority of Ariane Grande's fans tend to be young people in their teens or even in their twenties.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments