It sparked a major search in the city
13:17, 16 Apr 2025Updated 13:43, 16 Apr 2025
National Police Air Service NPAS helicopter (Image: PAUL GILLIS / Reach PLC)
A man was attacked and threatened with a suspected firearm in Bristol yesterday evening, Tuesday, April 15.
A major emergency response, including armed officers, the police helicopter and search dog, was called to the Lawrence Hill area locate the people involved.
BristolLive was told by a witness Lawrence Hill was closed off. They said: “What happened Lawrence Hill? All closed off. Looks very serious.”
Another witness said: “Police helicopter was hovering above Albert Road from 7pm to 11pm [last night].”
Despite extensive searches, officers were unable to find the wanted people and no firearm was found.
The victim of the attack did not suffer any serious injuries but is being supported, police said.
Avon and Somerset Police has said there will be an increased police presence in the area.
Enquiries into the incident are ongoing and anyone with concerns is urged to speak to officers.
A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said: “We were called just before 7pm to Lawrence Hill, in Bristol, following a report of a man being assaulted and threatened with a suspected firearm.
“Firearms and response officers, the drone unit and specialist search dogs were deployed, supported by the National Police Air Service, to search for the suspects.
“Officers were not able to locate the suspects and no firearm was located.
“We continue to support the victim of this incident, who we do not believe sustained any serious injuries.
“There will be increased reassurance patrols in the area over the coming days and we urge members of the public with any concerns to come forward and speak to our officers.
“Our enquiries are ongoing and we are calling on members of the public who witnessed the incident, or have any other information or relevant footage, to get in touch via 101, providing reference 5225107118 to the call handler.”