Police Concerned Following BB Gun Incidents, North Worcestershire

Police say they are concerned that someone could be maimed or seriously injured following a number of incidents today in which ball bearing (BB) guns have been fired in public across north Worcestershire.

The first occurred at around 5.30pm in Bromsgrove Street, Kidderminster, in which a man received minor injuries when he was struck by a pellet. 

Two further incidents occurred in Humphrey Avenue, Bromsgrove at 6.05pm and 7.09pm in which BB guns were discharged.  No one was injured in these incidents.

A BB gun was then discharged in Oak Tree Avenue, Redditch at around 6.20pm.  A man received minor injuries after being struck by pellets and was taken to hospital for treatment.  A 17-year-old girl and a 21-year-old man have been arrested in connection with this incident on suspicion of wounding.

Officers do not believe the incidents in the three towns are linked.

Inspector Kevin Lane, based at Kidderminster Police Station said: "It is highly unusual to have the number of incidents we have experienced tonight and it may be that this is a case of young people 'playing' with BB guns or air rifles and being unaware of the serious injuries this could cause or simply acting recklessly and irresponsibly.

"No weapon should ever be regarded as a toy as it has the capacity to kill or seriously injure someone.  We want to make it very clear that police will take robust action against anyone caught firing such weapons indiscriminately or at the public.

"Equally, I am very concerned that the people responsible for these incidents do not appreciate the gravity of the situation they are placing themselves in.  Armed police officers when confronted with a person carrying a weapon - even an air rifle or BB gun - will treat it as they would any other firearms incident.  They must assume that it is a loaded weapon presenting a threat to the public and themselves and will take action accordingly.

"I do not wish for any officers or members of the public to be placed in this situation and the aftermath that this could bring."

Anyone with information about any of the incidents tonight is urged to contact police on 101 or to pass information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Issued: Tuesday, 21 August 2012