A young girl was shot on the street in what authorities suspect to be a racially motivated attack. The incident occurred at approximately 1:30 pm on Chakeshill Drive in Bristol. The victim, a nine-year-old girl, sustained three pellet wounds from an airgun but fortunately did not suffer severe injuries, although she has been left deeply shaken by the ordeal. The attack is believed to involve two individuals.
Avon and Somerset Police are on the lookout for a white male, aged between 17-18 years old, standing around 5 feet 11 inches tall, with dark blonde hair and a slim facial structure. The suspect was reportedly dressed in a distinctive blue padded coat and was seen riding a black electric scooter with white markings at the time of the incident.
Following the shooting, a racially derogatory remark was made. Authorities are actively investigating the case and providing assistance to the victim and her family. The police have issued a statement appealing for information about the racially aggravated assault that targeted the young girl.
The statement reads: “We are seeking information regarding the unfortunate incident involving a nine-year-old child who was shot with an airgun in what is being considered a racially aggravated assault. The incident took place on Thursday, 2nd September, around 1:30 pm in Chakeshill Drive, Brentry, Bristol.
“The suspected perpetrator is described as a white male, aged approximately 17-18 years old, standing at about 5 feet 11 inches, with dark blonde hair and a slim face. He was seen wearing a unique blue padded coat and riding a black electric scooter with white markings.
“The young girl sustained minor injuries from three pellet shots during the incident, believed to have been carried out by another offender. A racial slur was also uttered during the attack, leaving the victim traumatized and too scared to venture outside.”
Authorities are urging the public to come forward with any information that could aid the investigation. Individuals who witnessed the incident or have relevant information are encouraged to contact the police on 101.
The police statement further added: “We have initiated a thorough investigation into the matter, are providing support to the victim and her family, and have connected them with Stand Against Racism and Inequality (SARI) for assistance. Extensive CCTV and door-to-door inquiries have been conducted.
“We are now seeking any witnesses or individuals with dashcam, CCTV footage, or doorbell recordings of the incident or the events leading up to it for immediate assistance. Please reach out to us on 101, quoting reference number 5225247677, or fill out our online appeals form.”