TWO people have been arrested on suspicion of “conspiracy to murder” after a 60-year-old man was shot dead in a “shocking” attack.
The “terrifying” incident took place in Elm Street in Stanley, County Durham, before cops were called to reports of a “disturbance” at 5.20pm on Saturday.
Durham Constabulary, who initially believed the victim to be in his 50s, was pronounced dead at the scene despite the efforts of paramedics.
The man’s family has also been informed of his death.
An investigation was launched and officers yesterday evening arrested a 37-year-old man and a 35-year-old woman on suspicion of conspiracy to murder.
They have been taken into police custody where they remain.
Investigators are currently examining the scene and officers are carrying out house to house questionings.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Superintendent Neil Fuller, of Durham Constabulary, said last night: “This is a truly shocking incident in which a man has been shot and has sadly died.
“We are carrying out several lines of enquiry and I would urge anyone who has witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage or CCTV and has not yet spoken to officers to get in touch.
“Residents may see an increased police presence in the area.
“I would like to thank them for their support while we carry out this investigation.
“Our thoughts are with the man’s family at this time.”
[bc_video account_id=”5067014667001″ application_id=”” aspect_ratio=”16:9″ autoplay=”” caption=”Horror as man ‘carrying weapon’ is shot dead by cops at train station in broad daylight” embed=”in-page” experience_id=”” height=”100%” language_detection=”” max_height=”360px” max_width=”640px” min_width=”0px” mute=”” padding_top=”56%” picture_in_picture=”” player_id=”default” playlist_id=”” playsinline=”” sizing=”responsive” video_id=”6370877984112″ video_ids=”” width=”640px”]In another statement, he added: “Our officers are carrying out extensive enquiries and I am grateful for the support and co-operation we have received from the community so far.
“I would urge anyone who has yet to get in touch with us to do so.
“Please don’t assume we already know. All relevant lines of enquiry will be explored.”
Danielle Scott, who lives a few doors away from the attack, said it was “terrifying”.
The local said: “I live on my own with my two-year-old daughter and I walk past that house on a daily basis to take my daughter to the park.
“I normally take her out around that time [of the shooting] as well.”
She added: “It’s just terrifying not knowing what’s going on.
“I never thought I would experience anything like this. I want to move out, I don’t want to be here.”
Nikki Miller said the victim was a “friendly face” in the community who was well-liked.
She described the man fondly, saying: “Everyone knew him, there were no bad words about him.
“He was a working man and never in any trouble.”
Anyone with any information is asked to call Durham Constabulary on 101, or 999 in an emergency, quoting incident number 302 of April 5.
Information can also be passed on to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.