Police raided two houses in Arbourthorne this morning (July 1), in response to reports of shots being fired in the area last night (June 30).

Officers executed warrants at one house on St Aiden’s Avenue and the other in Ironside Close.

The comes after emergency services were called to Errington Avenue shortly before 9:45pm yesterday, following reports of a firearms discharge.

A short time later, at 9:53pm, a call was received reporting that shots had also been fired on Aylward Road.

Police officers remain at both crime scenes this afternoon while enquiries are carried out at the houses fired at last night.

placeholder image — Police officers remain at both crime scenes this afternoon while enquiries are carried out at the houses fired at last night.

As officers searched the area for offenders, they located a silver Vauxhall Astra that had been burned out on City Road. Police believe this could be linked to the incidents and enquiries are ongoing.

Police also confirmed the helicopter sighted over Sheffield the area this morning was linked to their investigation into the shootings.

Temporary Superintendent Delphine Waring said: “I understand the concerns that incidents involving firearms cause within our communities.

“I would like to reassure everyone that we are doing all we can to locate those involved and ensure they are arrested. This type of behaviour will not be tolerated.

Police officers were alerted to a shooting on Errington Avenue shortly before 9.45pm and at 9.53pm there was a shooting on nearby Aylward Road.

“Although the investigation is in its early stages, we believe the two incidents to be linked.

“We understand that the people involved are likely to be known to each other, and we believe this to be a targeted attack. I do not believe there is a wider risk to the public.

“People living within the Arbourthorne area will see an increased police presence of firearms officers and neighbourhood police officers. We are there to provide reassurance and make sure you feel safe.

“If you are concerned, I encourage you to speak to these officers; we are there to support you.

Anyone with information should call South Yorkshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

“If you have any information which could assist either investigation, I urge you to report this either by speaking to an officer or calling 101, quoting incident number 37 of 1 July 2020.”

Alternatively, if you would like to remain completely anonymous, or do not feel comfortable speaking to police, you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers. Their telephone number is 0800 555111 or you can submit information via their website crimestoppers-uk.org.