At least 110 killed in hajj stampede

Thousands of Muslim pilgrims rushing to complete a symbolic stoning ritual on the last day of the hajj tripped over luggage today, causing a crush.

Medical officials said more than 110 people were killed and some 1,000 injured.

The stampede occurred as tens of thousands of pilgrims headed toward al-Jamarat, a series of three pillars representing the devil that the faithful pelt with stones to purge themselves of sin.

A member of an emergency team at the scene said at least 110 people were killed and that the number was likely to rise.

More than 1,000 were injured, a doctor with the Saudi Red Crescent said.

He said he had heard reports that up to 300 people may have been killed.

The doctor was identified only by his nametag, Dr Abbasi.

Footage from the scene showed lines of dead laid out on stretchers on the pavement and covered with sheets.