The public has been asked not to share distressing videos and images circulating on social media following a road accident in which a 74-year-old man died.

Officers were called at around 7.25pm ​​on Saturday after a man was hit by a single-decker bus in the Cowgate area of ​​Edinburgh.

Several roads were closed while investigations were carried out, but have since reopened.

Sergeant Louise Birrell of Edinburgh Highway Policing Unit said: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the man who died.

“Extensive investigations are underway to establish the full circumstances of this incident.

“Officers have spoken to a number of people who were in the area at the time and work is underway to check public and private CCTV footage.”

‘A tragic incident’

Detective Chief Inspector Trisha Clark, local area commander, added: “We are aware of the videos and images circulating on social media which are causing distress to the family of the deceased and those who inadvertently view them.

“We ask the public not to share them out of respect for his family and to report them to the appropriate social media platform to prevent further circulation.

“There has been much speculation and I would like to reassure the local community that this is an isolated incident and there is no risk to the general public.

“This was a tragic incident. We are investigating an accident and our highway patrol officers, assisted by local officers, are continuing to carry out inquiries.”

Police Scotland have asked anyone with concerns or any information that may assist the investigation to get in touch.