Merseyside Police have launched an investigation following a shooting in Toxteth during the early hours of Sunday, October 5. Residents reported hearing multiple gunshots as a man was pursued through several streets by a car. A stray bullet struck a family home, but no injuries have been reported.
The incident, which is believed to have started on Kingsley Road, prompted a significant police response, including armed officers and forensic teams. Authorities are now appealing for witnesses and any available video footage to help identify those responsible for the dangerous attack.
Key Takeaways
- A man was chased by a car through Toxteth streets while shots were fired.
- CCTV footage reportedly captured seven gunshots during the pursuit.
- A family home on Kingsley Road was accidentally hit by a bullet, shattering a window.
- Police forensic teams recovered three unfired bullets from Seaport Street.
- No injuries were reported as a result of the incident.
- Authorities are appealing for information, citing concerns over rising tensions.
Police Respond to Early Morning Shooting
Merseyside Police were called to Kingsley Road in Toxteth at approximately 12:15 am on Sunday following reports of a firearm discharge. Upon arrival, officers discovered that a bullet had passed through the downstairs window of a house.
An extensive cordon was immediately established, covering Kingsley Road, Seaport Street, and Millennium Road. The significant police presence included armed response officers and forensic investigators, who began a detailed examination of the area to gather evidence.
Initial reports suggested the house may have been targeted, but further information from local residents indicated a more complex series of events. The homeowner confirmed to reporters that she believed her house was struck by accident during a chase.
Details of the Street Chase Emerge
Witnesses and residents provided accounts suggesting the incident was a pursuit. A man was reportedly seen being chased on foot by individuals in a car. The chase is thought to have begun on Kingsley Road before moving onto Seaport Street and concluding near Millennium Road.
A local business owner stated, "A car was seen chasing a man up the road, they were firing a gun at him." This account was supported by an anonymous resident who described CCTV footage capturing the pursuit. According to this witness, the footage recorded the sound of seven distinct bangs as the chase unfolded.
Evidence Recovered at the Scene
During a meticulous fingertip search on Seaport Street, forensic teams discovered three unfired bullets on the roadside. These items were carefully collected, placed into evidence tubes, and secured for analysis as part of the ongoing investigation.
Community Reacts with Fear and Concern
The shooting has left the local community shaken, with many expressing concern for their safety, particularly for the children who frequently play outside in the area.
"They chased him from Kingsley Road, up Seaport and across to Millennium Road. It's scary," one neighbour said. "Children play out here, there are families. My children play in the front garden and now I am worried."
The incident has also raised concerns about potential gang-related activity. One resident noted that this was not the first firearms incident in the area this year, referencing a previous event on June 12 when a vehicle was damaged by a gunshot. He added, "There are three gangs in the area... More needs to be done, the community needs to come together with police to help stop this from happening before someone is hurt."
Police Appeal for Public Assistance
Merseyside Police have strongly condemned the shooting, highlighting the extreme danger it posed to the public. Detective Chief Inspector Stephen Ball addressed the recklessness of the act in a public statement.
"The risks of firing a gun in a residential street are clear and such dangerous and reckless behaviour will never be tolerated by Merseyside Police. There were people inside the home at the time and it’s only through chance alone that nobody was harmed in this incident."
DCI Ball confirmed that officers are conducting door-to-door enquiries and urged anyone with information to come forward. He made a specific appeal for any video evidence that might exist.
"If you live locally and saw or heard anything, or may have captured the incident or suspects making off on CCTV, dashcam or doorbell devices, please come forward as soon as possible," he requested.
Reducing Gun Crime in Merseyside
While acknowledging the fear such incidents cause, DCI Ball noted that gun crime has seen a significant reduction in recent years. However, he stressed that public cooperation remains vital for continued success. "Information is always the key to finding those responsible and removing them and any weapon from the streets. So please tell us what you know and we will take positive action," he concluded.
How to Report Information
Merseyside Police are asking anyone with information about this incident to contact them. There are several ways to provide information, including anonymously.
- Contact the police directly on social media by sending a message to @MerpolCC.
- Call the non-emergency number 101.
- When reporting, please quote the reference number 25000818244.
Alternatively, individuals who wish to remain anonymous can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers. They can be reached by calling 0800 555 111 or by filling out an online form on their website. Crimestoppers guarantees 100% anonymity for everyone who provides information.