In a chilling and disturbing incident captured on camera, a hooded gunman was seen ambushing a man and shooting him in the leg, while a child cried out in terror. The shocking footage, which has circulated on social media, shows the assailant approaching a residence on Simonswood Lane in Kirkby before firing a single round at a 61-year-old man. As the gunshot rang out, a woman, believed to be a relative of the victim, can be heard shouting “get in the house” as she rushes the man and the child to safety.
Following the shooting, the cloaked figure quickly fled the scene amidst the sound of chilling screams, as reported by the Liverpool Echo. Merseyside Police were alerted to the incident on Monday, September 30, at approximately 8:55 pm and the victim was subsequently taken to the hospital. Fortunately, the man is now reported to be in stable condition.
On Tuesday, October 1, a 41-year-old man from Kirkby was arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent to endanger life and possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life. He has since been released on bail pending further investigation. In response to the shooting, police presence has been increased in the area, with additional stop-and-search powers in place to prevent further incidents.
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Atkinson from Merseyside Police’s firearms investigation team condemned the attack, emphasizing the potential harm caused by firearms on the streets. He highlighted the risk to nearby individuals, including children, and underscored the importance of removing guns from communities to prevent further tragedies.
Local policing Superintendent Karl Baldwin echoed these sentiments, urging anyone with information to come forward and help combat gun crime in the area. He emphasised the need for community cooperation to ensure the safety and well-being of residents, particularly in the wake of such a brazen and dangerous attack.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by gun violence and the need for continued efforts to protect communities from such threats. With authorities investigating the motive behind the attack, residents are urged to remain vigilant and support police efforts to address and prevent further gun-related incidents in the area.