A nine-year-old girl was shot three times with a pellet from an airgun in what police are treating as a racially aggravated attack. The incident took place around 1:30 pm on Chakeshill Drive in Brentry, Bristol.
Although the girl did not sustain serious physical injuries, the attack has left her deeply traumatised and afraid to leave her home. Authorities believe two individuals were involved in the assault.
Police are actively searching for a white male suspect, approximately 17 to 18 years old, around 5 feet 11 inches tall, with dark blonde hair and a slim face. At the time, he was wearing a distinctive blue padded coat and was riding a black electric scooter marked with white writing.
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Reports indicate a racial slur was directed at the victim during the attack. Avon and Somerset Police have launched a thorough investigation, offering support to the girl and her family. They have also referred the family to Stand Against Racism and Inequality (SARI) for additional assistance.
Detectives have conducted CCTV and door-to-door inquiries and are appealing to anyone with information, including dashcam, CCTV, or doorbell footage related to the incident, to come forward. Witnesses are urged to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 5225247677, or to use the online appeals form.
In a statement, police emphasized: “We are appealing for information after a child was reported to have been shot with an airgun in what is being treated as a racially aggravated assault.” The investigation remains ongoing as the community seeks answers and justice for the young victim.