A 15-year-old boy is in a critical condition after being shot in Sunderland.

A 39-year old man and 16-year-old boy have been arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm in what police believe was an isolated incident.

The teenager was shot at 8.40pm on Wednesday while travelling on a motorbike on Hewitt Avenue in the Ryhope area.

He was taken to the Royal Victoria infirmary in Sunderland, where he remains in a critical condition, Northumbria police said.

Extra officers are in the area to offer reassurance to the local community and anyone who is concerned can speak to an officer.



DCI Mark Ord said: “We recognise this incident may be concerning for the local community and I would like to reassure them that there is no wider risk to members of the public. We have two people arrested who are currently in custody and our inquiries are continuing.

“Extra officers will remain in the area to answer any concerns local residents may have. If anyone has any information about the incident I’d urge them to get in contact with us.”

Witnesses or anyone with any information is asked to contact Northumbria police on 101 quoting reference 1063 051016 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.