A cordon at a nearby woodland area was removed over the weekend
Police Underwater Search Team spotted in the River Avon under St Annes Bridge, Tuesday 7 April 2026
A river was searched by police earlier today (April 7) as a man charged with attempted murder appeared in court over the weekend.
William Scammell, 24 and from Speedwell, is charged with attempted murder and being in possession of a shortened shotgun after an alleged shooting in Speedwell, East Bristol, last week.
He appeared at Bristol Magistrates’ Court on the morning of Saturday, April 4, where he was remanded in custody and the case was sent to Bristol Crown Court.
The case is due to go to a plea and trial preparation hearing on Wednesday, May 13.
It comes as Avon and Somerset Police have been seen searching an area of the River Avon near St Annes Woods, which was cordoned off until the weekend.
Police Underwater Search Team spotted in the River Avon under St Annes Bridge.(Image: PAUL GILLIS / Reach Plc)
The underwater search team were seen under St Annes Bridge as enquiries are continuing into the incident.
The incident happened at the beginning of this month and involved a gun being fired at a car on Speedwell Road at around 1.50pm on Wednesday, April 1.
The victim, a man in his 20s, remains in hospital with serious injuries.
Two other people, a man and a woman both in their 20s, were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.
They have both been released on police bail.
Senior investigating officer Det Ch Insp Jess Aston said on Friday: “We understand this has been a very shocking and concerning incident, but we would like to reassure the public that this remains a priority investigation for us.
“Neighbourhood officers continue to conduct high-visibility reassurance patrols in the area and anyone with any concerns or questions are encouraged to speak with us.”