Armed officers and the police helicopter are searching for the suspect
Abigail Neep South West Regional News Reporter
16:54, 01 Apr 2026
Second cordon on Speedwell Road (Image: BristolLive )
A major manhunt is ongoing in Bristol after a man was shot in Speedwell this afternoon.
Avon and Somerset Police were called to Speedwell Road at 1.47pm after a report that a gun had been fired at a car, seriously injuring a man in his 20s.
The masked gunman fled the scene and a police helicopter has been airborne ever since, circling over east Bristol, Kingswood and St Anne’s.
Police said the man is described as being white and aged in his late teens or early 20s. He had a slim build and was estimated to be about 6ft tall.
He was wearing a grey hoodie, black trousers and a balaclava. He left in the direction of Soundwell on a black and grey electric bike.
See our live blog on the incident here. No other injuries have been reported, say police.
At least three schools are currently in precautionary lockdown as police search for the wanted shooter.
Chief Inspector James Clements said: “I know this incident will be incredibly concerning, however we are deploying significant resources, including a National Police Air Service helicopter and our specially-trained firearms officers, as we work to locate the person responsible.
“The victim has been taken to hospital where he is being treated for an injury that’s potentially life-changing, but not believed to be life-threatening. His family have been informed and will be kept updated as our investigation progresses.
“There is likely to be a significant police presence in the area over the coming days while our investigation continues. Neighbourhood officers will also be carrying out extra patrols and anyone with any concerns can speak with them about these.”
Anyone who witnessed the incident, anyone with any footage of it, and anyone with any other information they think may help the police investigation should call 101 using the reference number 5226089476.