A man was seen limping in the street after being shot in what residents described as a 'terrifying' targeted attack.
Police were called at around 5.35pm this evening, after reports of gunshots being heard at the junction of Laird Street and Bray Street in Birkenhead .
People in the area reported that armed police were spotted at the scene and that a police helicopter was overhead shortly after 6pm.
to his buttock.
His condition is currently described as stable and detectives are treating the incident as targeted.
A woman who lives in the area said she has been left frightened by the incident as it happened just metres from her home.
She said: “I was out at the time thankfully but when you see all the police you instantly panic and worry about all your neighbours. It’s terrifying that someone would do this.”
Initial CCTV and witness enquiries are ongoing and detectives want to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information.
Another woman said that she saw the victim limping in the street not long after the shooting .
She told the ECHO : “I heard two big bangs, like massive pops, when I was stood inside my living room.
“I didn’t know what was going on but when I looked out the blinds I could see a lad limping away up the street but I never thought he’d been shot.”
“When I heard the sirens I went outside and my neighbour told me what had happened. I couldn’t believe it.”
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Detective Inspector Phil Atkinson said: "These are the early stages of our investigation so we initially want to hear from anyone who witnessed this incident as soon as possible.
"We initially believe that this was a targeted attack but nonetheless, to discharge a firearm in a busy public place in rush hour is incredibly reckless and thankfully didn't result in more serious injuries.
"Were you in the area of Laird Street around 5.30pm and saw anything suspicious? Tell us what you know and please check your dashcams, home and business CCTV and any mobile devices, as vital evidence may lie within.
"We are relentless in our pursuit of those criminals who store use firearms and other deadly weapons in our communities, so tell us what you know and help us make those streets safer."
Anyone with information is asked to contact @MerPolCC, call 101 with reference 775 and the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
