A 14-year-old boy who collapsed on the grounds of a West Lothian school died from natural causes, Police Scotland has confirmed.

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

Hamdan Aslam was taken by ambulance to hospital for treatment but died a short time later.

A post-mortem examination has confirmed that Hamdan died from natural causes.

His heartbroken family has revealed that he had a pre-existing heart condition that had “never been detected”, adding that his death “could have occurred at any time”.

‘There is no one to blame for his loss’

In a statement released through solicitor Aamer Anwar, they said: “Our family is left devastated by the sudden and tragic loss of our beautiful boy Hamdan who brought so much joy to our lives.

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“We want to assure Hamdan’s friends and our community that this was an entirely natural death and could not have been predicted.

“A full police investigation is being carried out, but we can confirm that Hamdan had a pre-existing heart condition that had never been detected, and sadly his death could have occurred at any time.

“There is no one to blame for his loss, it was God’s will.”

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Sky News previously reported that the playground incident was not believed to be part of an “online challenge” amid social media speculation within the community that it was a so-called “tap out” game.

‘Please take down the posts’

Hamdan’s family added: “We know that Hamdan’s loss is being deeply felt by his friends and teachers and we would urge those who have engaged in rumours on social media to stop, it is untruthful and compounding our grief.

“Please take down the posts. The running commentary is unhelpful to the children, teachers and our family who have been left deeply traumatised and devastated.

“We know that Hamdan’s teachers and friends did everything possible to save his life and for that our family will for ever be grateful to them.”

Read more:
Boy dies after ‘playground incident’ at school in West Lothian
Teenager who died after incident at West Lothian school named

As with any sudden death, a report has been sent to the Procurator Fiscal.

Chief Inspector Jocelyn O’Connor said: “This has been a tragic incident which has deeply affected everyone at the school. Our thoughts remain with Hamdan’s family and friends at this very difficult time and we are providing our support to them.

“They have requested privacy and I would ask their wishes are respected.”

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