Re-appeal for information after shots fired in Toxteth

We are re-appealing for information after shots were fired in Toxteth last night, Thursday 22 April.

At around 8pm, reports were received that gun shots had been heard in the area of Coltard Road and Lodge Lane. Armed officers attended and evidence of fired bullets was found.

At around 8.30pm a 20-year-old man self-presented at hospital with head injuries sustained in the incident. His condition is described as serious but stable.

A 20-year-old man, from Toxteth, and a 19-year-man, from Toxteth, have been arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm.

A full investigation is now underway, and police are in the area carrying out witness, CCTV and forensic enquiries. Anyone with information is asked to get in touch.

Detective Chief Inspector Matt Smith said: “We are in the very early stages of an investigation and will remain in the area to provide reassurance to the community and gather information.

“This initially appears to have been a targeted attack, but we’re keeping an open mind as to the circumstances.

“The use of weapons on our streets will not be tolerated and we know this will be an alarming incident for local residents. An extensive investigation will be carried out and we are determined to find the person or people responsible and remove firearms from our streets.

"I'd like to reassure people that if a victim does not cooperate, we will still act to ensure the community is protected throughout, and that whoever is responsible is brought to justice. Our commitment to this will not change.

“If you saw or heard anything suspicious in Coltard Road, or the surrounding area around 8pm, or have captured home CCTV or dashcam footage, please do come forward in confidence as any information could be vital to the investigation.”

Anyone with information can contact Merseyside Police social media desk via Twitter @MerPolCC, or 101 with reference 1004 of 22/04. You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.