Arrest Made as Man Shot in Neck With Air Rifle in Melling

A man has been arrested after another man was reportedly shot in the neck with an air rifle in Melling this morning.

Merseyside Police said officers were called just before 11.15am today, Wednesday 1 July, following reports that a man in his 40s had been shot in the neck in the area of Waddicar Lane.

The victim was taken to hospital, where his condition is described as stable.

A 35 year old man has since been arrested on suspicion of Section 18 wounding and possession of a firearm. He remains in police custody while enquiries continue.

Detectives have launched an investigation and officers are carrying out house to house enquiries, reviewing CCTV and speaking to witnesses in the local area.

Chief Inspector Dave Uren said: “The investigation is in the very early stages as we speak to witnesses and establish what has taken place.”

“A man has been taken to hospital and we have made an arrest but we would urgently appeal for anyone who was in the area of Waddicar Lane this morning who heard or saw anything suspicious to contact us.”

“Weapons have no place on the streets of Merseyside as we know the devastation they can cause so my appeal would be for the public to support us by telling us what they know.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Merseyside Police via social media, call 101 quoting log 364 of 1 July, or report information online.

Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.