Police Respond to Gunfire Reports at Liverpool Park

Police responded swiftly to reports of gunfire near a children’s play park in Litherland, Liverpool. The incident occurred on the evening of November 19, 2023, prompting a significant presence of officers at Hapsford Park shortly before 9:45 PM. Witnesses reported hearing several loud bangs and shouting in the area, leading to immediate action by the Merseyside Police.

Upon arrival, officers cordoned off a large section of Hapsford Park, the adjacent field, and Hapsford Road while investigations commenced. Eyewitnesses noted that five teenagers were seen leaving the vicinity, some on foot and others on electric or push bikes.

Investigation Underway

A spokesperson for Merseyside Police confirmed that authorities are reviewing CCTV footage from the area to gather evidence related to the reported gunfire. Additionally, house-to-house inquiries have been initiated to collect further information. Local residents reported hearing loud bangs, reminiscent of fireworks, shortly before police arrived on the scene.

Detective Edward Barr addressed the public, urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or seen the group of youths afterward to come forward. He stated, “I would also like to appeal to anyone who lives in the area, who has doorbell camera footage that may have captured the incident to get in touch.”

Police dogs were observed at the site as part of the ongoing investigation, with officers meticulously searching the park area around 9 PM. Authorities want to reassure residents that they are actively working to ensure public safety in the community.

Community Safety Reassurance

Detective Barr emphasized the commitment of the police to keep Merseyside safe, saying, “We are relentless in our pursuit of such offenders who may be carrying dangerous weapons in our community.” He encouraged anyone with information, including CCTV or dashcam footage, to contact the Merseyside Police’s social media desk via X @MerPolCC or through Facebook at ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’.

As investigations continue, the police remain focused on resolving this incident and ensuring the safety of residents in the surrounding area.