
The peaceful streets of Old Swan, Liverpool, were shattered by tragedy this weekend when 29-year-old Ashley Dale, a dedicated mother-of-four, was found with fatal gunshot wounds in her own backyard.
Merseyside Police are treating the horrific incident as a suspected case of mistaken identity, believing the young environmental health officer was not the intended target of what appears to have been a planned attack.
A Life Cut Short
Ashley, described by heartbroken relatives as "an amazing mother" and "beautiful daughter," was discovered by concerned neighbours in the rear garden of her property on Kingsheath Avenue shortly after midnight on Sunday.
Emergency services rushed to the scene but despite their best efforts, the promising young professional was pronounced dead at the scene, leaving behind four young children and a devastated family.
Community in Shock
Detective Chief Inspector Cath Cummings confirmed that investigators believe Ashley was not the intended target of the attack. "This appears to be a tragic case of mistaken identity," DCI Cummings stated. "Ashley was a hard-working young woman with her whole life ahead of her."
Neighbours expressed their horror at the violent incident in what is typically considered a quiet residential area. Local residents have been leaving floral tributes at the scene, creating a growing memorial to the much-loved mother.
Police Appeal for Information
Merseyside Police have launched a murder investigation and are appealing to the public for any information that could help identify those responsible.
"We believe this was a targeted attack, but against the wrong person," DCI Cummings emphasised. "We need anyone with information, no matter how small it may seem, to come forward and help us bring justice for Ashley and her family."
The investigation continues as forensic teams work at the scene and police conduct house-to-house enquiries in the surrounding area.