Appeal following suspected firearm discharge in Prescot

We are appealing for information following a report of a firearm being discharged in Prescot town centre yesterday evening, Wednesday 24 May.

At around 11.30pm it was reported that a male was on Kemble Street and a loud bang was heard and four males running away.

It was reported the suspect made off towards Manchester Road after the loud bang was heard.

There are no reported injuries, and no evidence of damage or bullets recovered at this stage.

An investigation has commenced, and a search of the area is being carried out.

A large area of Prescot town centre including Market Place, Kemble Street and Sewell Street has been cordoned off. We ask people to avoid the area while we deal with this incident.

Detective Chief Inspector of Firearm Investigation Team, Paul McVeigh said: “There is no evidence to suggest a discharge took place at this stage. However, we are carrying out a search of the area as a precautionary measure to recover any evidence we might find.

“I am appealing for anyone who was in the vicinity of Kemble Street at around 11.30pm last night who may have seen or heard anything suspicious to contact us.

“I urge people to check your CCTV or dashcam for footage for any footage for any captured the incident or a male acting suspiciously in the area or making off from the scene which will help with the investigation.”

DCI McVeigh continued: “Merseyside Police immediately responds to incidents involving guns and is actively working to make Merseyside a safer place to live and work.

“In 2021 we saw the result of that hard work with the lowest number of firearms discharges Merseyside had seen for more than 20 years.

“Any information from the public is vital if you know where guns are being stored, I urge you to contact Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111."

If you have any information on this incident, or who has information which could help us with our inquiries, is asked to DM @MerPolCC, message ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre on Facebook’ or @CrimestoppersUK on 0800 555 111 with reference 1287 of 24 May.

You can also pass information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Always call 999 if a crime is in progress.