Merseyside Police have launched a major investigation in Toxteth after a house on Kingsley Road was shot at in the early hours of Sunday, October 5. The incident, which occurred around 12:15 am, resulted in damage to a front window but caused no injuries, despite people being inside the property at the time.
A significant police presence was established in the Liverpool 8 area, with extensive cordons and forensic searches conducted throughout the day. Authorities have described the shooting as a targeted attack and have implemented enhanced search powers to address community safety concerns.
Key Takeaways
- Shots were fired at a house on Kingsley Road, Toxteth, shortly after midnight on Sunday.
- The property was occupied at the time of the shooting, but no one was injured.
- Police recovered several bullet rounds from a nearby street during forensic searches.
- A Section 60 order was authorised, granting police additional stop and search powers in the area.
- Detectives believe the incident was a targeted attack and are appealing for public information.
Overnight Incident Sparks Major Police Response
Merseyside Police were first alerted to the incident at approximately 12:15 am on Sunday morning following reports of a firearm discharge on Kingsley Road. Upon arrival, officers discovered that a house had been shot at, causing significant damage to a downstairs window.
Authorities quickly confirmed that residents were inside the home during the attack. Fortunately, no physical injuries were reported. A large emergency service presence was maintained throughout Sunday as the investigation commenced, with several streets in the vicinity cordoned off to preserve the scene.
Extensive Search Operation Underway
In the hours following the shooting, police cordoned off a wide area to allow for a thorough investigation. The primary cordon was established on Kingsley Road, but it was later extended to include several adjacent streets as the search for evidence expanded.
Neighbouring Seaport Street was completely sealed off, and officers were also seen conducting detailed searches along Granby Street, Arundel Close, and Millennium Road. Specialist forensic teams and officers carried out fingertip searches, meticulously examining the ground for any evidence related to the incident.
Understanding Fingertip Searches
A fingertip search is a methodical search technique used by police to locate small but potentially crucial pieces of evidence, such as bullet casings, fibres, or weapon fragments. Officers form a line and move slowly across an area, carefully examining the ground. This process is vital in firearms investigations where evidence can be easily missed.
Crucial Evidence Recovered from the Scene
The extensive search operation proved successful later in the day when forensic officers located key evidence. At least three bullet rounds were discovered and recovered from the ground on Millennium Road, a street near the initial incident location.
Police also found what were described as fragments of evidence on Seaport Street. Each piece of potential evidence was carefully documented and collected by the forensic team. The recovery of these items is considered a significant step in the ongoing investigation to identify those responsible.
Police Issue Statement and Enhance Powers
Merseyside Police have condemned the shooting, labelling it a reckless act that endangered lives. Detective Chief Inspector Stephen Ball provided a stern warning to those involved.
"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."
He confirmed that detectives are treating the shooting as a targeted attack and urged the public to assist. "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," DCI Ball added.
Section 60 Order Authorised
In response to the incident, Merseyside Police authorised a Section 60 order for the area. The order came into effect at 3 pm on Sunday and remained in place until 5 am on Monday. This temporary measure grants officers additional powers to stop and search individuals they suspect may be involved in criminal activity, without needing the usual grounds for suspicion.
Local Policing Chief Inspector Jack Woodward explained the rationale behind the order. He stated, "This Order is just one of the measures we are taking to disrupt those who are willing to use firearms in our community. It’s simply about taking action to reduce violence and make sure that everyone can feel safe where they live."
Community Voices Concern
Residents in the Toxteth area woke on Sunday morning to a heavy police presence and news of the overnight violence. The incident has left many in the community feeling unsettled.
One local man, speaking to reporters while with his elderly mother, described the event as "terrible news," adding that "no one can feel safe anywhere." Another resident, a mother with young children living on Kingsley Road, said her family was woken by the sound of sirens and the sight of flashing blue lights.
The police have increased patrols in the area to provide reassurance to the community while their investigation continues. They reiterate that information from the public is essential to finding those responsible and preventing future violence.