Christchurch: Police Investigating Gun Shots At School

19 December 2014, 06:03

Police are continuing to investigate a shooting near school grounds in Christchurch.

A 26-year-old man arrested in connection with the incident yesterday (Thursday 18 December) was later de-arrested.

Officers with Dorset Police said the man held in connection with the incident near Highcliffe School was no longer part of their inquiries.

He was initially arrested after reports that a man armed with an air rifle had fired at groundsmen working on fencing surrounding the school shortly after midday.

The school was placed on temporary lockdown as armed police scoured the area, with staff and children kept inside the building for their own safety.

Nobody was injured in the incident, and police confirmed investigations will continue.

A spokesman said: ``Police officers have now left the scene and police community support officers remain in the area, carrying out community reassurance patrols.

``The school is back to normal and police have completed a full and thorough search of the area. No-one was injured. Air pellets were recovered at the scene.

``Dorset Police would like to reassure the community that there are no further concerns or risks to the public. We have moved this matter from a response to an investigative phase.

``The 26-year-old man from Christchurch detained in connection with the incident has been de-arrested at the scene. Inquiries are continuing.''