Police trying to discover motive for attack that left youngster in hospital with injured leg

This article is more than 8 months old

This article is more than 8 months old

A 12-year-old boy was in a stable condition on Sunday night after being shot in the leg in a drive-by attack in Sheffield.

The child was in a group of youngsters and adults gathered in the Arbourthorne area of the city at about 3.45pm on Sunday when a white car drove past and a gunman opened fire.

When police arrived, they found the boy had suffered an injury to his leg. He was taken to hospital for treatment and remained in a stable condition, police said.

Det Insp Denise Booth said: “Specialist officers have been in the area this afternoon and evening, examining the scene and speaking to witnesses as we work to piece together the exact circumstances of this incident, what led to it and to identify those responsible.

“What we know so far is that the boy was with a group of other people, both children and adults, in the Errington Road area when a white car is said to have driven past, firing shots out of the window. The car left the area heading towards East Bank Road.

“In the early stages of the investigation, as we continue to gather evidence, we are exploring all lines of inquiry as to the motive of the incident … and – to help provide some reassurance to residents – we will have an increased presence in the area tonight and over the coming days.

“This matter is an absolute priority for us and it’s imperative that anyone with information or concerns speaks to an officer.”

She urged anyone with information to call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.