Police officer shot in Nottingham city centre, two suspects at large
A police officer was shot in Angel Row, Nottingham, shortly before 05:00 on Sunday and is in a stable condition. Two suspects fled the scene.
Officer shot in Nottingham as suspect pair flee city centre scene
A police officer was shot in the foot after approaching two people in Angel Row, Nottingham city centre, shortly before 04:50 BST on Sunday, channel4.com reports. The officer, who is male, is receiving treatment in hospital and described as being in a stable condition.
Nottinghamshire Police confirmed detectives are hunting a man and a woman who fled the scene following the shooting. A firearm, visible within the police cordon, was recovered at the location. Angel Row remained closed throughout Sunday, with police cars lining the road — which runs past fast food stores and shops — and orange traffic cones marking out items left on the ground. The cordon was extended to the adjoining St James's Street, where an officer stood guard.
Assistant Chief Constable Claire Rukas described the incident as "a shocking incident and a sobering reminder of the potential dangers faced by officers as they work to protect and serve the public." Rukas added that her thoughts were with the injured officer, his family and colleagues, and appealed for anyone with information to come forward without delay. "Even the smallest bit of information could make all the difference to this investigation," she said.
Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Gary Godden thanked members of the public who assisted the wounded officer at the scene. "Thankfully firearms incidents like this are extremely rare, which is why it is so shocking," Godden said, adding that he considered the officer's conduct a credit to the force and expressing confidence that detectives were working hard to identify those responsible.
Neghat Khan, leader of Nottingham City Council, said she was "deeply shocked and saddened" by the shooting. Khan stated that the council was working alongside police to support the investigation and ensure those responsible were caught and brought to justice swiftly. "While incidents of this nature are extremely rare, our commitment to keeping Nottingham safe is absolute," she said.
Nadia Whittome, MP for Nottingham East, used social media to urge anyone with relevant information to contact police, and said she wished the officer "a full and speedy recovery."
The Police Federation of England and Wales also issued a statement calling the incident "a stark reminder of the dangers police officers face every day while protecting the public." A spokesperson added that the courage and commitment of officers "must never be taken for granted."
East Midlands Ambulance Service, in a post on social media, extended its support to the officer, his family and Nottinghamshire Police colleagues, wishing him a full and speedy recovery.
Forensic officers attended the scene on Sunday morning. The force said a heightened police presence would remain in place as the investigation continued. Detectives have asked anyone with information to come forward.
Source: Google News UK — Crime (en)