A young boy was killed in an accident in a north-east village this evening.
Police confirmed that the eight-year-old child had died following a collision on Seafield Street in Portsoy.
Officers were informed of the incident between the pedestrian, who has not been named, and a white Citroen Berlingo van shortly before 5pm.
“Inquiries into the collision are at an early stage and the road will be closed for some time,” a police spokesman said.
Stunned nearby residents said they had been surprised by the incident, which happened on the A98 Fochabers to Fraserburgh road which passes through the quite village.
One said: “I have been here 23 years and I have not heard of any issues on this road before.”
Another Ronnie Lawrence added: “I am shocked especially when it is a young kid.
“I have been here since 1976 and I have never heard of anything like this happening.”
Local councillor Ian Gray said the communities thoughts were with the family at this time.
He added: “I don’t ever recall a fatal accident happening on that street before.
“There have been a few minor incidents, but never a serious accident.
“It must be devastating news. My heart goes out to the family and all concerned.
“Obviously at this moment in time we don’t know exactly what has happened, so it is not really appropriate to make any further comments.
“There has been from time to time calls for a pedestrian crossing to be put there, but traffic levels have never met their requirements. That may now need to be reviewed.”
Sergeant Neil Morrison, from Aberdeenshire and Moray Division’s Road Policing Unit, said: “Sadly I can confirm that an eight-year-old boy has died as a result of a collision on Seafield Street in Portsoy this evening.
“First and foremost, our thoughts are with the family and friends of the boy. We will be conducting an investigation into the collision and would like thank the public for their patience whilst this is done.
“We are also asking anyone who may have witnessed the collision and has information to contact Police Scotland on 101.”