A nine-year-old girl has been shot in a street incident in Bristol, which police are treating as a racially aggravated attack. The shooting occurred around 1.30pm on Thursday, 2 September, in Chakeshill Drive, Brentry. The young victim was struck three times by pellets from an airgun but fortunately did not sustain serious injuries. However, she has been left traumatised by the event.
Avon and Somerset Police are investigating the incident, which is believed to involve two individuals. They are seeking a white male, aged between 17 and 18 years, who is described as approximately 5ft 11ins tall, with dark blonde hair and a slim face. At the time of the incident, he was wearing a distinctive blue padded coat and was riding a black electric scooter with white writing.
Following the shooting, a racial comment was reportedly made, contributing to the police's classification of the incident as racially aggravated. The police have stated that the girl is now too frightened to leave her home.
In a public appeal, the police urged anyone who witnessed the incident or has information to come forward. They are particularly interested in any dashcam, CCTV, or doorbell footage that may have captured the moments leading up to or following the attack.
A police statement read: "We have launched an investigation into the incident, are supporting the victim and her family, and have referred them to Stand Against Racism and Inequality (SARI) for support. CCTV and house-to-house enquiries have been carried out."
Anyone with information is asked to contact the police on 101, quoting reference number 5225247677, or to complete the online appeals form.