The police statement went on: “We have launched an investigation into the incident, are supporting the victim and her family, and have referred them to Stand Against Racism and Inequality (SARI) for support. CCTV and house-to-house enquiries have been carried out.
“We are now appealing for any witnesses and those with dashcam, CCTV, or doorbell footage of the incident, or the moments leading up to it immediately afterwards, to contact us on 101 quoting reference number 5225247677, or complete our online appeals form.”
A nine-year-old girl has been left traumatised after being shot three times in a suspected “racially aggravated attack” on the streets of Bristol.
The young victim was targeted with an airgun around 1.30pm in Chakeshill Drive, Brentry, Bristol. Despite being hit by pellets, she did not suffer serious injuries but is understandably shaken by the incident.
The police are treating it as a racially aggravated assault and believe two individuals were involved.
Avon and Somerset Police have launched a manhunt for a white male suspect, aged between 17-18 years old, approximately 5ft 11ins tall, with dark blonde hair and a slim face. He was last seen wearing a distinctive blue padded coat and riding a black electric scooter adorned with white writing.
Following the shooting, a racial slur was reportedly made. The police force is currently investigating the incident and providing support to the victim and her family, reports the Mirror.
In a statement, the police said: “We are appealing for information after a child was reported to have been shot with an airgun in what is being treated as a racially aggravated assault.
“The incident, which involved a nine-year-old girl, happened at around 1.30pm in Chakeshill Drive, Brentry, Bristol on Thursday 2 September.
“The offender has been described as a white male, estimated to be 17-18 years old, around 5ft 11in, with dark blonde hair, a slim face, who was wearing a distinctive blue padded coat and riding a black electric scooter with white writing.
“The girl was hit three times by a pellet which caused soreness but no serious injury during the incident, which is thought to have involved a second offender. A racial comment was also made during the incident, and she has been left traumatised and is now too frightened to leave the house.”
Officers are also urging members of the public to come forward with information.
Anyone who saw what took place, or who possesses details that could help police with their enquiries, should ring the force on 101.