A MAN has been taken to hospital with a serious injury after being shot in Speedwell.
A number of roads in the area were sealed off for several hours today after the incident, which happened shortly after 1.45pm.
Armed police could be seen on the streets several hours after the incident as the hunt for the gunman, who is reported to have escaped on an electric bike, continued into the evening.
A number of schools in the area were locked down after the incident, with parents having to wait to pick up children.
Police said they were called at 1.47pm to a report that a gun had been fired at a car in Speedwell Road.
Firearms officers were sent to the scene as part of the emergency services response.
A police spokesperson said a man in his 20s was taken to hospital with a serious, “potentially life-changing” injury.
No other details about the victim have been released, and no other injuries have been reported.
It is not clear at this stage whether the injured man was in the car, and if so whether he was the driver or a passenger.
The gunman is described as white, in his late teens or early 20s, about 6ft tall and slim.
He was wearing a grey hoodie, black trousers and a balaclava at the time of the incident, and fled in the direction of Soundwell on a black and grey electric bike.
Armed police could be seen on nearby Ingleside Road several hours after the incident, and a cordon remained on Charlton Road, between Speedwell Road and New Queen Street, as a police forensics team examined a white Volkswagen Polo car (below) parked at the roadside.
Schools locked down
During the response Bristol Brunel Academy, Chester Park Infant and Junior Schools, and Two Mile Hill Primary School, all of which were close to cordoned-off areas, were locked down, with parents having to wait to collect children until the all-clear was given.
Chief Inspector James Clements said: “I know this incident will be incredibly concerning, however we are deploying significant resources, including a National Police Air Service helicopter and our specially-trained firearms officers, as we work to locate the person responsible.
“The victim has been taken to hospital where he is being treated for an injury that’s potentially life-changing, but not believed to be life-threatening.
“His family have been informed and will be kept updated as our investigation progresses.
“There is likely to be a significant police presence in the area over the coming days while our investigation continues.
“Neighbourhood officers will also be carrying out extra patrols and anyone with any concerns can speak with them about these.”
Video footage appeal
Anyone who witnessed the incident, has dashcam or doorbell footage they think could be relevant or has other information that could help the investigation should call 101, using the crime reference number 5226 089 476.
Information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.