Nine-year-old girl shot three times in racially aggravated assault; police hunt teen with airgun
Investigation underway in Bristol as officers seek a 17- to 18-year-old white male described as tall and wearing a distinctive blue padded coat while riding a black electric scooter
A nine-year-old girl was shot three times with an airgun in a racially aggravated assault in Bristol, police said on Thursday. The attack took place around 1:30 p.m. on September 2 in Chakeshill Drive, Brentry. The pellet caused soreness but the child sustained no serious injuries. Investigators believe a second offender may have been involved. A racial remark was made during the incident, leaving the young girl traumatised and too frightened to leave the house.
Avon and Somerset Police have launched a major investigation and are seeking a suspect estimated to be between 17 and 18 years old. The man is described as white, about 5 ft 11 in tall, with dark blonde hair and a slim face. He was wearing a distinctive blue padded coat at the time and was riding a black electric scooter with white writing.
Officers say they are pursuing lines of enquiry and have conducted house-to-house checks and reviewed CCTV footage in the area. The investigation is being supported by the victim and her family, who have been referred to Stand Against Racism and Inequality, known as SARI, for support.
Neighbourhood Policing Chief Inspector Keith Smith said the incident is deeply troubling because it targeted a young child, and police have asked residents to expect reassurance patrols in the area. He added that investigators believe it to be an isolated incident and urged anyone with information to come forward.
Authorities are asking for witnesses and anyone with dashcam, CCTV, or doorbell footage from the moments before, during, or after the attack to contact Avon and Somerset Police at 101, quoting reference number 5225247677, or submitting information via the online appeals form.