Students shot by mistake

16 February 2011, 11:19 | Updated: 2 March 2011, 13:26

Two students who were shot on their doorstep in Luton were the victims of mistaken identity, police believe.

The men, who are both aged 26, were shot on Tuesday night when they answered a knock to the door of their home in Ashton Road.

They are both still receiving treatment to injuries they suffered.

Police are continuing to appeal to members of the public for help in tracing three men who may may have targeted the wrong house.

Senior Investigating Officer, DCI Steve Collin, of the Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit, said: "Police have completed extensive background checks and we believe that the two young men injured during this incident are innocent of any wrong doing. Both had only been in Luton for a short time and it is possible the offenders either went to the wrong address or were looking for someone else when they went to the house."

The trio were described as two black men and a third man who had a lighter complexion than the others. All wore dark clothing.

It is understood that three men matching this description were seen running along Tavistock Crescent, which leads to the London Road area, shortly after the shooting.

DCI Collin added: "It is of vital importance that members of the public continue to help the police with this investigation. We need to trace these men and stop them from continuing to use firearms in our town. Even the smallest piece of information may be the link we need to solve this incident and I would urge anyone who has seen or overheard information relating to this offence to contact the police immediately."

Members of the Major Crime Team are continuing to work closely with the University of Luton and this afternoon (Thursday February 16th) they will be joining the local Safer Neighbourhood Team to provide reassurance and support to any students at the University who have been upset by this incident.

Anyone with information can contact Bedfordshire Police, in confidence, on 01234 841212, or text information on 07786 200011, or contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.