A city street was cordoned off last night after a man was shot close to some of Liverpool's much-loved bars.
Police were called to Colquitt Street at around 11pm after the victim, a man in his 20s, was shot in the leg.
Emergency services attended and the victim has been taken to hospital for treatment.
Footage from the scene last night shows a police cordon and four police cars blocking off nearby Seel Street.
Police said the crime scene remains this morning.
Today Merseyside Police urged witnesses to come forward.
A spokesperson said: "We are appealing for information after reports a man was shot in Liverpool city centre this evening, Thursday, 27 May.
"Shortly after 11pm, officers were called to Colquitt Street following reports a man in his 20s had sustained a serious injury to his leg.
"A scene is in place and officers will remain in the area to carry out CCTV, forensic and witness enquiries.
"High-visibility patrols have been stepped up in the area and anyone with information is asked to get in touch."
Detectives are now trying to establish a motive for the "shocking" shooting.
Detective Inspector Paul Gillies said: “We are working to establish the exact circumstances after a man sustained a gunshot wound in Liverpool city centre and I would appeal to anyone who was in the area at the time, and saw or heard any suspicious behaviour, to please get in touch."
He added: “This is a shocking incident which I understand will cause concern within the local community, but I want to reassure the public that we will work tirelessly to locate those involved and bring them to justice.
“Gun crime will not be tolerated by Merseyside Police, and an extensive investigation is now underway. We know the city centre was busy this evening so I would urge anyone with information, CCTV or dashcam footage from the area to please contact us, as any information could prove vital to our investigation.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact @MerPolCC, 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111 quoting reference 21000343135.
