BREAKING: Armed police are currently in Bootle following reports that shots were fired on Stanley Road this afternoon

BREAKING: Armed police are currently in Bootle following reports that shots were fired on Stanley Road this afternoon, Monday 7 September.

Merseyside Police have confirmed they were called shortly before 5pm following reports that a man riding an e-bike had fired shots from a handgun at the junction of Balliol Road and Stanley Road.

At this stage, there are no reports of anyone being injured. However, police have confirmed that damage has been caused to a property.

Armed officers are currently in the area and police cordons remain in place while officers carry out CCTV and witness enquiries.

Stanley Road has been affected by the police cordon, with reports of congestion in the surrounding area.

Residents in the area had earlier reported hearing what sounded like two loud bangs before a significant police presence arrived at the scene.

Detective Chief Inspector Chris Saidi said:

“We are in the very early stages of an investigation and I would appeal to anyone who may have witnessed what happened or has any information which could help us with our enquiries to come forward.

“I would also like to appeal to anyone who lives in the area, who has CCTV footage or Ring doorbell, that may have captured the incident to get in touch.

“We are relentless in our pursuit of such offenders who carry dangerous weapons in our community and urge anyone who has any information to contact us so we can find those responsible.”

Police are particularly keen to hear from anyone who was in the Stanley Road and Balliol Road area at around 5pm and may have witnessed anything suspicious.

Anyone with CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage which may have captured the incident is also being urged to contact Merseyside Police.

Information can be provided to Merseyside Police quoting log number 745 of 7 September.

Alternatively, information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

In an emergency, always call 999.

We will update this story when further information is confirmed by Merseyside Police.