Man Shot in Lilley

17 February 2010, 17:38 | Updated: 18 February 2010, 16:24

Detectives believe a man shot when a gang of masked men burst into his home in the village of Lilley in Hertfordshire was not the intended victim.

The builder was at home with his wife and son when a group of three or four men in balaclavas who were looking for another person forced their way in.

During a struggle the 43-year-old was shot in the stomach and buttock. He was rushed air ambulance to the Royal London Hospital where his condition is said to be stable. Police describe his injuries as "life-changing."

The shooting happened at the semi-detached house Reuley Dell Road at ten to three on Wednesday afternoon.

Herts police say a group of three or four men wearing black balaclavas went into the man's house. After the shooting they were seen getting into a silver car which was located in East Street, the main road through the village. It was driven off in the direction of the village of Hexton.

Two men who were arrested earlier have been released.

Detective Chief Inspector Sean O'Neil from the Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit said: "We believe this was a targeted attack and not a random shooting and we are appealing to anyone who has any information to contact us as soon as possible. If you saw anyone acting suspiciously in Rueley Dell Road before or after the incident, saw a silver car in East Street, or a group of men, or anything that could be linked to this attack please contact us or alternatively Crimestoppers where you can leave information anonymously." Anyone with any information is asked to contact the incident room 01707 355798.