A man has been arrested after a primary school aged boy was found dead in a house on Coupar Angus.
Police confirmed that an eight-year-old girl is fighting for her life in hospital after being discovered at the same property.
Officers attended the home on Union Street after receiving a call from a member of the public at around 2.30am on Sunday.
They discovered the children, and an injured man nearby. Sadly the boy, 10, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The girl suffered serious and life threatening injuries and is being treated at Ninewells Hospital, Dundee.
Chief Inspector Ian Scott said: “At this time, our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of the young boy who has died in this incident and with the young girl who remains in a serious condition in hospital.
“I can confirm that a 37 year old man has been arrested in connection with this incident.
“Inquiries are ongoing however I believe this to have been an isolated and contained incident with no threat to the wider public.
“There will be a police presence at the scene for some time while we undertake our investigation and I would like to thank the local community for their patience whilst we carry out our work.
“There will be additional patrols by local community based officers in Coupar Angus to help provide some reassurance to the community.
“If anyone heard or saw anything in the Union Street area, who hasn’t already spoken with officers, I would ask that they call Police Scotland on 101 (ref 0611 of 11 Nov) with details.”
Officers have blocked off the street.
Scotland’s deputy First Minister John Swinney spoke of his personal sadness over the tragedy.
He said: “I am horrified by the news emerging from Coupar Angus this morning that a child has lost his life and another child is in a critical condition.
“This is devastating news and my heart goes out to the children and their family and friends.
“The Coupar Angus community is so close to home for me and the news is literally impossible to comprehend.
“I urge anyone with relevant information to share that with Police Scotland. I will do all that I can to help everyone affected by this tragedy.”
