In one of the terrific terror attack in the United Kingdom since 2005, a suicide bomber blew himself up as thousands of fans were exiting US star Ariana Grande's pop concert in Manchester, leaving 22 people dead on the spot.
Emergency services work at Manchester Arena after reports of an explosion at the venue during an Ariana Grande gig in Manchester, England, Monday, May 22, 2017.
Several people have died following reports of an explosion Monday night at an Ariana Grande concert in northern England, police said. A representative said the singer was not injured. (Peter Byrne/PA via AP)
The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the Manchester Arena bombing, according to a news agency linked to the terror group. A suicide bomber, armed with an improvised explosive, detonated himself inside the Manchester Arena on Monday night. The attack left 22 dead and 59 injured, including children.
Queen Elizabeth paid her tribute to the victims of the terror attack. “I know I speak for everyone in expressing my deepest sympathy to all who have been affected by this dreadful event and especially to the families and friends of those who have died or were injured,” she said in a statement released by Buckingham Palace.
“The whole nation has been shocked by the death and injury in Manchester last night of so many people, adults and children, who had just been enjoying a concert,” the Queen said, while thanking all the members of the emergency services who responded with professionalism and care.”