Three schools plunged into lockdown as police launch manhunt for gunman following shooting

Three schools were closed due to a gunman on the loose following a shooting in Bristol.

A victim was taken to hospital with life-changing injuries following a shooting in the city’s Speedwell area this afternoon, police said.

It was learned that the attacker was on the run and the police launched a large-scale manhunt.

As a precaution, three nearby schools were quarantined and students were not allowed to leave the area.

Avon and Somerset Police said officers were called to reports of shots fired at a car on Speedwell Road in Speedwell at 1.47pm.

Firearms teams also supported the emergency room at the scene, where a seriously injured man in his 20s was taken to hospital. No other injuries were reported.

Officers said inquiries are ongoing to identify the person responsible, who rode the black and gray electric bike in the direction of Soundwell.

He was described as white, in his late teens or early twenties, with a slim build and approximately 6 feet tall. He was wearing a gray hoodie, black pants and a ski mask.

A victim was taken to hospital with life-changing injuries following a shooting in the city’s Speedwell area this afternoon, police said.

Chief Inspector James Clements said: ‘I know this incident will be incredibly worrying.

‘However, we are deploying significant resources, including the National Police Air Service helicopter and our specially trained firearms officers, as we work to find the person responsible.

‘The victim was taken to hospital where he was treated for a potentially life-changing injury but is not believed to be life-threatening.

‘His family has been informed and will be kept informed as our investigation progresses.

‘There is likely to be a significant police presence in the area over the coming days as our investigation continues. Neighborhood officers will also be carrying out extra patrols and anyone with any concerns can speak to them about this.’

The air ambulance was first seen landing at Barton Fields Park at around 2.30pm.

A police helicopter was also seen circling over the city for an hour and a half.

Three schools, including Bristol Brunel Academy, Two Mile Hill Primary School and Chester Park Infant School, were quarantined as a precaution.

In an email to parents, Two Mile Hill Primary School said: ‘Due to a serious incident in the local area, Two Mile Hill Primary School has been placed on lockdown as a precaution. During this time, no one will be able to enter or leave the school grounds.

‘We know this comes very close to the end of the school day and can cause disruption; however, the safety and security of our students and the broader community is our top priority.

‘We will provide further updates as soon as possible.’

Bristol Brunel Academy said it was police-run and told parents in an update: ‘We are still in precautionary isolation on police advice.

Please do not worry, this is only a precaution and we expect to hear further instructions. All staff and students are safe.

‘Due to the incident in the local community we have been advised by the police to remain in quarantine. ‘Staff and students will remain at the Academy and we will await updates from the police.’

Avon and Somerset Police said anyone who witnessed the incident or has any footage or other information about the incident should call 101.