A TWENTY-ONE-YEAR-OLD man who was arrested in connection with a shooting in a village pub car park has been bailed.

Detectives investigating the shooting in the car park of the Golden Lion in Rainford last week arrested a man on Monday, August 8.

The incident happened at around 4.20pm on Sunday, July 31, with reports that a man had been shot in the leg in the car park of the Church Road pub.

St Helens Star: Police on Church Road on Monday last weekPolice on Church Road on Monday last week

It was reported that a private christening was taking place in the establishment's marquee, when two suspects wearing dark clothing entered the pub grounds on an electric bike, and left on the same bike a short time later.

Emergency services rushed to the scene and the victim was taken to hospital to be treated for serious injuries.

He has since been discharged. 

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Following inquiries, a 21-year-old man from Kirkby was arrested on Monday  suspicion of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life and wounding. 

He was taken into custody for questioning by officers. 

A Merseyside Police spokeswoman said the 21-year-old man arrested in connection with the shooting has since been bailed with conditions.

The investigation remains ongoing.

St Helens Star: Police at the scene after the shooting on July 31 Pic: Andy GricePolice at the scene after the shooting on July 31 Pic: Andy Grice

After the arrest, Detective Inspector John Mullen from Merseyside Police Firearms Investigation Team said: “This was an extremely shocking incident for the community in Rainford and, for the past week, our officers have been working round-the-clock to find those responsible and bring them to justice. 

“While we have made one arrest, rest assured, our enquiries into the shooting remain very much ongoing. 

“I’d like to thank everyone who has come forward with information to help our investigation so far. I’d continue to urge anyone who may have witnessed anything suspicious in the Rainford area last Sunday afternoon to let us know. 

“Your information could be vital to help us piece together the movements of two male suspects on an electric bike shortly before the incident took place." 

St Helens Star: Police at the scene last weekPolice at the scene last week

He added: “If you were in the vicinity of the Golden Lion, between 3pm and 4pm on Sunday, July 31, and saw anything, or captured any footage on dashcam, mobile phone or other devices, then please come forward. 

“Even if you thought that something you heard or saw was insignificant at the time, please make sure you tell us now. Please don’t assume that something you know is irrelevant to our investigation -  your information could be key to helping us find those responsible and removing them from our streets. 

“Whether you get in touch with us directly or anonymously through Crimestoppers, let us know and we will take action to remove dangerous weapons and those who use them from our communities.”

  • If you witnessed this incident or have any information, you can direct message @MerPolCC, message ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ on Facebook or call 101 with reference 22000552993. You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Alternatively, you can report via their online form here.