Home   Whitstable   News   Article

Boy charged after man shot in leg at Whitstable's Westmeads Recreation Ground

A boy has been charged after a shooting in a public park.

Armed police were scrambled to Whitstable at about 2pm on July 7 after a 22-year-old man was shot in the leg on Westmeads Recreation Ground.

Paramedics and an air ambulance also rushed to the scene, and the young man was taken to hospital for treatment.

Two people have been arrested. Stock picture
Two people have been arrested. Stock picture

Officers initially believed he had been injured with a ball-bearing gun pellet.

But, following surgery on the victim, it emerged his wound had been caused by a bullet. Further enquiries are now being made to establish the type of weapon that was used.

At about 5.30pm on Monday, a 54-year-old man and a 16-year-old boy were arrested in connection with the incident, which is now being investigated by detectives from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate.

The air ambulance landed on Westmeads Rec. Pic: Janice Johnston (13497800)
The air ambulance landed on Westmeads Rec. Pic: Janice Johnston (13497800)

Assisted by a police helicopter, officers searched a property in Yorkletts at around 11pm, before carrying out further searches at a property in Walmer Road, Whitstable, yesterday .

The 16-year-old has now been charged by police with conspiracy to commit grievous bodily harm with intent. He is set to appear at Folkestone Magistrates' Court later today.

The 54-year-old man has been released on bail until August 7, pending further investigation.

Detectives are continuing to appeal for witnesses to the incident, and would like to hear from anyone who has not yet come forward.

Anyone with information can call the appeal line on 01843 222289 quoting reference 46/130220/19.

Alternatively you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or by completing an online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org.

To get the latest updates in ongoing cases, police appeals and criminals put behind bars, click here.

Read more: All the latest news from Whitstable

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More