Leader of Plymouth City Council Councillor Nick Kelly said: “Plymouth is a city in shock today. This is a city with a reputation for being friendly, for being safe.
“Details of what happened last night are still emerging and it will be some time before we know the whole story, but we do know that Plymouth people have a history of coming together to support each other.
"Our thoughts are with the families of those affected by this awful tragedy and those who may have witnessed this distressing event. We are mourning with them.
"We are already working closely with our colleagues in Devon and Cornwall Police and organisations such as Livewell, Barnado’s, the Red Cross and other volunteer organisations to offer support for grieving families and the close-knit community of Keyham.
"I will be visiting Keyham today to meet with the local community and express my condolences.
"But we know that events of this scale will ripple across our city and it is truly heartening to see community venues and churches have opened their doors so that people can talk and share their thoughts and for reflection. They are
- Ford Park Primary School
- St Thomas Church
- Keyham Methodist Community Centre
- St Mark’s Church
"Our flags are flying at half-mast as a mark of respect for those who lost their lives in this appalling situation.
As a mark of respect for the victims, tonight we will also be lighting Smeaton’s Tower – a beacon of light – on a very dark, dark day for Plymouth."
Leader of the Opposition Councillor Tudor Evans OBE added: “The whole city is united in its shock and grief over this horrendous event and our thoughts go out to all those who are affected.
“This is so, so tragic. We will all work together to do all we can to help people come to terms with this truly shocking episode.”
There is a 24-hour Victim Support helpline on 0808 1689111 for anyone affected.