Three teenagers killed in Highlands crash

Three teenagers have died after the car they were in crashed on the A830 in the Highlands.

Emergency services were called to the road near Arisaig, west of Fort William, at about 23:15 on Thursday. All three were confirmed dead at the scene.

Police said formal identification had still to take place, but they believed the driver and the two passengers in the Ford Fiesta were all young teenage boys.

Lochaber High School in Fort William has posted a message saying its “hearts and thoughts” are with those affected.

Police Scotland Insp Donnie MacKinnon said: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the people who died as a result of this crash.”

The officer added: “Our inquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances, and I am appealing for anyone who witnessed the crash and hasn’t already spoken to officers to get in touch.

“I would also appeal to anyone who was in the area and who may have dashcam footage which could assist to contact us.”

The crash happened on a stretch of road near the Borrodale House hotel.

Police, ambulance and fire crews were sent to the scene.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said it was alerted just before 23:30, and two appliances were sent to assist the other emergency services.

The road was closed until about 11:55 on Friday.

First Minister John Swinney and his deputy Kate Forbes, who is a Highland MSP, have both posted messages on social media expressing their shock and sadness.

Swinney said: “Deeply saddened to hear of the tragic loss of three young people in a car crash near Arisaig.

“My thoughts are with their families, friends and the whole community at this heartbreaking time.”

Kate Forbes, deputy first minister and MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, said she was deeply sorry to hear of news of the incident.

She added: “It is devastating beyond words. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected.”

Lochaber High School in Fort William has posted a message to pupils, parents and staff on social media.

It said: “We are deeply saddened by the recent tragedy in our community.

“Our hearts and thoughts are with everyone affected at this difficult time.”

Lochaber High added that support services would be available for pupils and parents from Monday.