Seven arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after shots fired in Birmingham street

Police are investigating after shots were fired in Hockley Close in Birmingham shortly before 4pm yesterday afternoon (29 April).

Firearms officers were immediately deployed to the scene which has been cordoned off for forensic examination.

Fast-track CCTV enquires were conducted and police were assisted by a police helicopter.

A house and two cars were damaged. A black VW Golf left the scene but was picked up on automated number plate recognition some time later.

Armed response officers pursued and the car was stopped.

Three of the occupants were arrested and two who made off on foot were also detained nearby. 

A 32-year-old man was taken to hospital with a gunshot wound to his leg, where he remains under arrest for attempted murder and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life.

The other six, all aged between 16 and 27, are also under suspicion of attempted murder and possession of a firearm. They are being questioned today by detectives.

Vehicles believed to be involved in the incident are being forensically examined and officers are conducting house to house enquiries as we try to understand the motive for the attack.

Detective Inspector Jackie Nicholson said: “We know this incident has caused concern in the local community and this is entirely understandable. Firearms have no place on our streets and we work hard to pursue those who carry them, creating such fear and potential harm.

“We have extra officers in the area and we would encourage members of the public to talk to us about their concerns.

“We also ask anyone with information who hasn’t yet spoken to us to come forward. We are exploring CCTV, but would ask anyone with footage of the incident to let us know to help our investigation.”

West Midlands Police believe this was a targeted attack and there will be an increased police presence over the Bank Holiday weekend.