Detectives in Merseyside have arrested a 38-year-old man after CCTV footage showed him firing a weapon at a house in Moreton. The incident occurred on Millhouse Mews at around 2.30am on Sunday, July 19, and police were quickly on the scene following a report from the public.
Police respond swiftly to CCTV report
Officers arrived shortly after the report was received and detained a suspect following enquiries. A subsequent search of an address led to the seizure of an air rifle, a BB gun, and a zombie knife. No injuries were reported from the shooting.
The arrested man, from Moreton, remains in police custody for questioning. He was arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and possession of an offensive weapon or pointed article.
Detective urges public to report weapons
Detective Inspector Phil Ryan of Merseyside Police emphasised the importance of community intelligence in removing weapons from the streets. He said: “Seizing the air rifle, BB gun and knife means there are less weapons on our streets which could have been used to cause fear and intimidation in our communities.”
Ryan added: “To the untrained eye, an air rifle and BB guns can cause fear and harm to people who wouldn’t know the difference between them or a more dangerous weapon if confronted with one. We rely on information given to us by the public and this makes a huge difference in identifying suspects, seizing weapons and removing suspects who would bring lethal weapons onto our streets.”
Call for community vigilance
Detective Inspector Ryan urged residents to act as the police's “eyes and ears” and report any suspicious activity. He stated: “It is vital that members of our communities come forward with information so we can make our communities safer for the decent, law-abiding people who live in areas affected by gun crime.”
He also highlighted the option to report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 for those uncomfortable speaking directly to police. Ryan stressed: “Where people are willing to support the police, we will ensure every possible avenue is progressed to them.”
How to report information
Anyone with information about gun storage or use in their community can contact Merseyside Police via X @MerPolCC, Facebook ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’, or through the force's website. Alternatively, calls can be made to 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. In an emergency, always dial 999.
