Huyton teenager shot on his bike in 'horrifying' attack

Image source, Google

Image caption, The boy was cycling near the junction of Blue Bell Lane and Glade Road in Huyton

A teenager was shot in the leg as he rode his bike by another cyclist in a "horrifying" attack, police said.

The 17-year-old was attacked near the Blue Bell Lane and Glade Road junction in Huyton, Knowsley at about 18:20 GMT on Wednesday, Merseyside Police added.

He was taken to hospital with leg injuries described as serious but not life-threatening.

A 26-year-old man from Huyton has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and possession of a firearm.

He remains in custody for questioning.

Merseyside Police believe the shooting was a "targeted" attack and have appealed for any witnesses or CCTV footage.

Det Insp Tony O'Brien said: "Thankfully, while serious we believe [the boy] will recover from his injuries. But the consequences of firing a gun in a residential area could easily have been far worse.

"This will have been a horrifying experience for the victim, and of course deeply distressing for people who live locally."

Police said a Section 60 order, which gives officers enhanced stop and search powers, will be in place in Huyton, Knotty Ash and Page Moss until 04:00 GMT on Friday.