Police are investigating the sudden death of a 16-year-old boy.
Officers were called to a property in Keirhill Avenue, Westhill at about 10am on New Year’s Day following concern for the teen.
He was taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, but pronounced dead a short while later.
His family were too upset to talk at their home today.
Police are treating the tragedy as unexplained. There are not thought to be any suspicious circumstances.
A police spokesman said: “We were made aware of concern for a 16-year-old male at a property on Keirhill Avenue in Westhill around 10am on Sunday, January 1.
“He was taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary but pronounced dead a short time later.
“A report will be submitted to the procurator fiscal.”
‘Such a shock’
Neighbours in the quiet street described seeing multiple police cars and ambulances outside the house on Sunday morning.
One said the family were known in the area and were “great people”, but did not want to comment further on what he had heard was a tragic “misadventure”.
Obinna Ugoala, 49, who lives nearby, said: “It was such a shock, I never thought something like this would happen in a thousand years.
“My thoughts are with the family at this time.”
Community offers condolences
Local councillor Fatima Joji also extended her sympathies to the boy’s loved ones.
She told The P&J: “I deeply and sincerely share my condolences and my heartfelt wishes go to all the friends and family. I can’t imagine what it feels like to lose someone so close and a child that young as well, at the start of the New Year.”
As news of the tragedy spread online, many people said their thoughts were with the family.
Karen Burnett wrote: “Thinking of his mum, dad & sisters, so sad.”
Louise Marie Hamill posted: “My sincere condolences to his parents. As a mother myself, I can’t fathom what his family are going through.”
And Cakky Borrie wrote: “Absolute heartbreaking for this family and friends.”
- We reported yesterday that it was understood the death of a teenager in Westhill came after he became ill from inhaling “laughing gas”. While police investigations continue, we have since been made aware that there is no evidence at this stage that he had used the substance that night. We are happy to clarify the matter and apologise for any distress or confusion caused.
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