Shots have been fired at a man on an electric bike in a "targeted" attack in Knotty Ash.
Merseyside Police rushed to Finch Way, near the junction with Murcote Road, just before 9.45pm on Monday following reports of a shooting. Shots were reportedly fired from a dark-coloured car in the direction of a male on an electric bike.
A cordon is in place as forensic examination is carried out but Merseyside Police said there are no reports of anyone being injured at the time. Enquiries with local hospitals remain ongoing.
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Chief Inspector Kev Chatterton said: “It is despicable to think that those offenders who carry firearms think it is acceptable to use them in a residential area such as this.
“At this stage there are no reports of any injuries but it is extremely reckless to shoot a weapon on any street at any time of day.
“I know the community in Knotty Ash will be shocked and disappointed to hear this has happened so close to home. I want to reassure them that we will leave no stone unturned as we seek to find out exactly what took place and vitally, who is responsible for bringing gun crime to their streets.
The car was reportedly driven away towards Finch Lane and the bike ridden towards Princess Drive. Door to door and CCTV enquiries are being carried out.
Anyone who witnessed the shooting or has any information about what happened is asked to contact police.
Chief Insp Kev Chatterton added: “We are in the very early stages of an investigation into this incident and are appealing to anyone who was in the area shortly before 9.45pm and witnessed the incident, saw the car the offenders were believed to be driving, or the electric bike they appear to have targeted.
“If you saw anything or anyone suspicious please come forward, as any information you have could be vital to our enquiries.
“Similarly, if you were driving in the area and have dashcam footage please review it and let us know if you see anything that may assist our enquiries.
“At present we believe this was a targeted attack and we have a visible police presence in the area to reassure residents and assist with our investigation.
“Firearms have absolutely no place on the streets of Merseyside and we are committed to removing them and the people who choose to carry them. It is essential that we get all information from those communities who are left feeling the impact of gun crime, so we can bring those responsible to justice.
“Speak to us directly or anonymously and we will take firm action to remove dangerous weapons from or streets and put those who use them before the courts.”
Anyone who witnessed the incident or who has any information is asked to contact @MerPolCC on Twitter or ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ on Facebook or call 101 with reference 1087 of 8th August.
You can also call Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111, or their online form at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/forms/give-information-anonymously.
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