Police send four-word message to witnesses after gang members shoot Sheffield schoolboy, 12

Deputy Chief Constable of South Yorkshire Tim Forber holding a press conference following the shooting of a 12 year old boy in the Arbourthorne Area of Sheffield

The youngster was shot in his leg on Northern Avenue, Arbourthorne, when a gun was fired from a passing car at around 3.45pm yesterday.

The boy was standing outside a shop with his friends aged 13, 15 and 16, where they were caught in the line of fire in a targeted attack.

Assuring that any witnesses will be given protection, South Yorkshire Police Asst Chief Constable Tim Forber said the answer to the horrendous incident lies within the community.

"We know, and I know that an incident such as this strikes an absolute fear in the heart of the community.

"But I also know that the people who perpetuate this kind of violence rely on that fear. They rely on people not coming forward, they rely on people being scared.

"That is how they carry on with their business. They rely on people being scared to give evidence," he said.

He said the incident occurred in the presence of other members of the public, who must have seen what happened.

Police tape can be seen on Northern Avenue, Arbourthorne, today after a cordon was put in place following a shooting yesterday (Pic: Darren Burke)

He also said the police suspected that the attack was a result of a dispute between two organised crime groups, and was linked to a number of incidents that have taken place since mid November.

The gunman responsible is said to have opened fire from a white Ford Focus, which drove off in the direction of East Bank Road.

Asst Chief Constable Forber said a similar vehicle was later found abandoned and set on fire in Clough Road, just after 6pm on Sunday evening.

"We need those people to speak to us, and tell us what they saw and tell us what they know. My message is very clear.

"We can protect you, we can protect your identity but without your help, it becomes increasingly difficult to investigate these crimes. These crimes are best dealt with the police and the community working together.

"With your information, we can and we will bring those individuals responsible for this horrendous crime to justice and we will make this community safer.

"If you were in Arbourthorne yesterday afternoon and saw what happened, get in contact with us, if you have a dashcam footage, get in contact with us."

Those with information, please contact 101 quoting incident number 516 of January 12 or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.