Armed police in Plymouth after air rifle shooting

A man was taken to hospital after being shot with an air rifle in Plymouth. Armed police officers were called to the scene in North Hill at around 5.45am today (Tuesday, December 17) after reports a man had been shot in the chest.

Police have said the victim has been taken to hospital and his injuries are not considered life-threatening or life-changing. North Hill is closed in both directions while police continue their searches for the suspect.

Devon and Cornwall Police said: "Police were called to North Hill, Plymouth, at around 5.45am on Tuesday, December 17 following reports of a man being shot to the chest by an air rifle.

"Armed response units attended the scene. The victim has been taken to hospital but his injuries are not considered life-threatening or life-changing.

"Local road closures have been put in place. Enquiries are ongoing to locate the suspect.

"Anybody who witnessed the incident or who may have relevant CCTV or dash-cam footage is asked to contact police on 101 or via our website quoting log 101 of 17 December."

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North Hill is closed between Armarda Street and North Road East, with traffic being diverted around the scene. Multiple buses are also taking alternate routes through Greenbank, including the school bus for Plymouth High School for Girls. Plymouth Citybus said: "Due to the ongoing Police closure of North Hill school buses are on diversion and will not be able to serve stops for Plymouth High School for girls they will need to alight the 103 on Alexandra Road stop and 48S on Greenbank or Mutley Plain. School informed."