Leicester police
Leicester Police have secured the area around De Montford University campus as it is under investigation for a 'very serious incident'

Multiple police cordons have been established in Oxford Street, Leicester city centre, following what De Montfort University has described as a 'very serious incident' on its campus on Tuesday evening, 3 February.

Leicestershire Live reports that the scene was set up close to the crossing and a section of pavement outside The Innovation Centre, part of De Montfort University (DMU), in Oxford Street from just before 6:00 p.m.. Leicestershire Police have closed off the road at the junction with Grange Lane as officers respond to the unfolding situation.

University Issues Statement

In a statement released on Tuesday evening, DMU confirmed it was aware of the incident and said it was working closely with Leicestershire Police as they launch an investigation. A university spokesperson said: 'We are aware of a very serious incident on our campus this evening. We are working with Leicestershire Police as they launch an immediate investigation.'

The spokesperson added: 'Our thoughts are with everyone affected by what has happened. We are offering direct support to students and staff who witnessed the incident.'

The university has not provided specific details about the nature of the incident but emphasised its commitment to supporting the well-being of its campus community during this difficult time.

Major Police Presence at Scene

When Leicestershire Live attended the scene earlier on Tuesday evening, there was a significant emergency services presence. Around four police cars were stationed at the location, alongside seven officers from Leicestershire Police who were managing the cordons and conducting their investigation.

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service were also present at the scene, indicating the serious nature of the incident. DMU security officers were also reported to be in the area, working alongside the emergency services.

Several cordons were established around the immediate vicinity, with police tape preventing access to sections of the pavement and road. Officers were seen directing pedestrians away from the area.

Road Closures and Public Advised to Avoid Area

In a brief statement issued just before 6:00 p.m., Leicestershire Police confirmed that Oxford Street at the junction of Grange Lane had been closed to traffic and pedestrians. A force spokesman urged members of the public to avoid the area whilst officers deal with the incident.

The force has not yet revealed the nature of the events that led to the road closures and the establishment of multiple cordons. The police spokesperson also said they did not anticipate being in a position to provide further updates until Wednesday.

Investigation Continues

The Innovation Centre, where the incident occurred, is a key facility within De Montfort University's Leicester campus. The building is located on Oxford Street, one of the main thoroughfares through the city centre, making the road closure particularly disruptive to traffic and pedestrians in the area.

As the investigation continues, the university has assured students and staff that support services are available to anyone affected by the incident. The full circumstances surrounding the events of Tuesday evening remain unclear, with police maintaining their presence at the scene as they gather evidence and conduct their enquiries.

Further updates are expected from Leicestershire Police on Wednesday as the investigation progresses.

Originally published on IBTimes UK