Three schools in Bristol went into emergency lockdown on Tuesday afternoon, after a 20-year-old man was shot in a car on Speedwell Road, in the Speedwell area in the east of the city. The Avon and Somerset Police immediately launched an extensive search operation for the perpetrator, who fled the scene on an electric bicycle.
What happened?
The incident occurred at 1:47 p.m. when police received 911 calls reporting shots fired at a vehicle on Speedwell Road. Armed response units were immediately deployed to the scene and a National Air Police Service (NPAS) helicopter flew over the area.
The victim, a man aged approximately 20 years, suffered serious injuries described as “potentially with permanent consequences on life”, but is not in danger of death. He was airlifted to Southmead Hospital just before 2.30pm.
Schools entered into lockdown
As a precautionary measure, the following schools in the area have been closed and placed in the lockdown procedure:
Bristol Brunel Academy
Two Mile Hill Primary School
Chester Park Infant and Junior Schools
Bristol Brunel Academy sent a message to parents: “We are still in preventive lockdown, on the recommendation of the police.” Parents were advised not to come to school and wait for official instructions.
The search for the author who fled with the electric bicycle
The police communicated that the suspect left the scene on a black and gray electric bicycle, heading towards the Soundwell area. A police cordon has been set up between Speedwell Road and Two Mile Hill, an area approximately 6km north-east of Bristol city centre.
Chief Inspector James Clements, from Avon and Somerset Police, said: “I know this incident will be extremely concerning, but we are deploying significant resources, including an Air Force One helicopter and specially trained firearms officers, as we work to identify the person responsible.”
The officer added that the victim’s family has been informed and will be kept informed of the evolution of the situation, and that there will be a significant police presence in the area in the following days.
What you need to know if you live or work in the area
If you are in the Speedwell or Soundwell area of Bristol, the police recommend the following:
Avoid the area of Speedwell Road and Two Mile Hill until the cordon is lifted.
If you have information about the incident or the suspect, contact the police on 101.
In case of emergency, always call 999.
The neighborhood police will carry out additional patrols in the area.
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