A 14-year-old boy has died following a playground incident between two pupils at a school in West Lothian, Sky News understands.

Emergency services were called to Kentigern’s Academy in Blackburn, West Lothian, on Tuesday afternoon.

The teenager, who has not yet been identified, was taken by ambulance to hospital for treatment but died a short time later.

Detectives met education authorities on Wednesday morning to discuss the pupil’s death, as other students continue to receive emotional support.

Police sources have said the incident was not part of an “online challenge” amid social media speculation within the community that it was a so-called “tap out” game.

Sky News understands there is “no criminality” involved, however Police Scotland has refused to comment as investigations continue.

A force spokesperson said: “Around 1.20pm on Tuesday 6 June 2023, officers were called to a report of concern for a 14-year-old boy at a school in the Bathgate area.

“He was taken by ambulance to hospital for treatment, but died a short time later.

“His family have been informed and enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the death.”

The school, where singer Lewis Capaldi was once a pupil, previously said there was an “isolated incident” within the grounds.

Headteacher Andrew Sharkey said: “We have set up ongoing emotional support and signposting for students and staff affected by this tragic news.

“We would like to respect the family’s privacy at this incredibly painful time.”

Mr Sharkey confirmed that the school was assisting the relevant authorities and would not be making any further comment at this time.

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Local MSP Fiona Hyslop said: “My deepest condolences are with the family and friends of the pupil who has died. I hope those closest to him are given the privacy they deserve at this tragic time.

“This will be an incredibly difficult time for everyone – not least the pupils, teachers and staff at St Kentigern’s Academy.

“The support being offered at the school will be crucially important right now – and, in my capacity as their MSP, I will do everything I can to help the community through this awful situation.”

West Lothian councillors Jim Dickson and Mary Dickson said they were “devastated” along with the community over the schoolboy’s death.

They added: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends.”

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