UPDATE: Two suspects still in custody after Hastings gun fire

Two people remain in custody after a gun was fired at a property in Hastings last night (Sunday, February 28).
Police on Devonshire Road after a gun was fired at a house. Photo by Eddie MitchellPolice on Devonshire Road after a gun was fired at a house. Photo by Eddie Mitchell
Police on Devonshire Road after a gun was fired at a house. Photo by Eddie Mitchell

A 51-year old man and a 31-year old woman, both from St Leonards, who were arrested nearby soon afterwards on suspicion of possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life, are still in custody for interview and further enquiries.

A firearms unit and the police helicopter went to the scene after reports that two people had got out of a car and fired a gun at a building on Devonshire Road at around 5pm.

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Police discovered the shots had caused damage to a door and two windows, one of which was smashed, at the front of the multi-occupancy property.

Chief Inspector Paul Phelps said: “We can reassure residents that this is a very rare incident for Hastings, and there is currently nothing to suggest that there is a risk to the wider community in the town.

“It is certainly not terrorist-related and we are examining other possibly more local motives.”

No firearm has yet been found and forensic work is continuing to establish the type of weapon used.

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Nobody was outside the building at the time and nobody was hurt.

“We are appealing for witnesses who saw the shooting or anyone who has any information to contact us,” Ch Insp Phelps said.

“In particular, we understand some people went into the Sainsburys Local which is at the other end of Devonshire Road to report what had happened, but left without giving their details.

“We ask them to contact us as soon as possible.”

If you can help please contact police by emailing [email protected] or ring 101 quoting Operation Highsted.

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You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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