Police responded swiftly to reports of gunfire near a children’s play park in Litherland, Liverpool, on the evening of November 19, 2023. Authorities received calls about several loud bangs and shouting in the vicinity just before 21:45 local time. Officers from **Merseyside Police** arrived at a playing field on **Hapsford Road**, cordoning off a significant area of **Hapsford Park** and the surrounding streets as investigations began.
Witnesses reported seeing a group of five teenagers leaving the scene, some on foot and others riding electric or push bikes. The police’s immediate response included securing the area and conducting thorough searches with the assistance of police dogs. Local residents noted that moments before the police’s arrival, they heard sounds resembling fireworks, raising concerns about safety in the community.
Investigation Underway
A spokesperson for **Merseyside Police** stated that investigators have begun reviewing CCTV footage from the area to gather evidence related to the incident. House-to-house inquiries are also being conducted to seek further information. Detective **Edward Barr** has urged the public to come forward with any relevant details.
“I would appeal to anyone who may have witnessed the incident, saw the group of youths shortly after, or has any information which could help us with our inquiries to come forward,” Barr said. He also encouraged residents with doorbell camera footage that may have captured the event to share it with the police.
Barr reassured the community about the force’s commitment to safety. “We are relentless in our pursuit of such offenders who may be carrying dangerous weapons in our community,” he added.
Community Reactions
As the investigation continues, local residents expressed their concerns regarding safety in the area. Many voiced worries about the implications of gunfire near a children’s play park, highlighting the need for increased security measures.
The police are appealing for anyone with information or footage relating to this incident to contact them via their social media channels on X (@MerPolCC) or Facebook (Merseyside Police Contact Centre). Community engagement is vital in these situations, as it aids law enforcement in addressing concerns and maintaining public safety.
Merseyside Police’s rapid response underscores their commitment to ensuring the safety of residents in **Litherland** and surrounding areas. As the investigation unfolds, the community remains hopeful for swift resolutions to the incident.
