Skelmersdale shooting: Murder probe over death of man

A man has died after being shot by an attacker who then fled on a bike.

Lenny Scott, 33, from Prescot was shot in Peel Road, Skelmersdale, at about 19:35 GMT on Thursday, Lancashire Police said.

Police said paramedics found the man with serious wounds and "despite the best efforts of emergency services, the man later died in hospital".

Detectives believe the offender escaped on either an e-bike or scrambler bike. No arrests have been made.

Det Ch Supt Pauline Stables said: "We have launched a major investigation, and we have a team of detectives and uniformed officers and staff working on this enquiry to try and establish exactly what has happened, to identify a motive for this shooting, and to identify and arrest the offender.

"Incidents like this are extremely rare in Lancashire but we have increased patrols in the area, and if you have any information or concerns, please don't hesitate to approach an officer."

She added the gunman was wearing black clothing with an orange high-vis jacket.

"If you noticed anyone matching this description, or have seen any abandoned bikes in the area, please tell us as you could provide some vital information to our enquiries," Det Ch Supt Stables added.

Police have asked people to avoid the area. Anyone with information has been urged to get in touch with the force.

Why not follow BBC North West on Facebook, X and Instagram? You can also send story ideas to [email protected]