Police responded to a children’s play area in Litherland, Liverpool, following reports of gunshots fired in a nearby field. The incident unfolded just before 21:45 on November 19, 2023, prompting a swift response from Merseyside Police.
Officers arrived at a playing field on Hapsford Road after receiving multiple reports of loud bangs and shouting. Witnesses indicated that five teenagers were seen leaving the area, some on foot and others using bicycles, heading towards a nearby train station.
Investigation Underway
In response to the incident, police cordoned off a significant portion of Hapsford Park, the adjacent field, and Hapsford Road while investigations commenced. According to reports from the Liverpool Echo, the police have been actively reviewing CCTV footage in the area for any evidence related to the potential use of firearms and have conducted house-to-house inquiries.
Local residents reported that officers focused their efforts on a specific section of the field near the park. Police dogs were also deployed as part of the ongoing investigation. Eyewitnesses noted hearing loud bangs, which they described as similar to fireworks, shortly before police arrived on the scene.
Community Appeal for Information
Detective Edward Barr urged anyone who witnessed the incident or saw the group of youths shortly afterward to come forward with information. He also called on residents who may have doorbell camera footage that captured the incident to contact the police.
“I would like to reassure residents that our officers immediately respond to incidents such as these and are actively working to make Merseyside a safer place to live and work,” Detective Barr stated. “We are relentless in our pursuit of such offenders who may be carrying dangerous weapons in our community and urge anyone who has any information to contact us so we can find those responsible.”
Anyone with relevant CCTV, dashcam, or doorbell footage is encouraged to reach out to Merseyside Police via their social media channels on X @MerPolCC or on Facebook at ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to ensure the safety of the community and address any concerns stemming from the incident.
