Two men in Littlehampton seafront drive-by shootings

Both happened in Sea Road, Littlehampton, and within 15 minutes of each other.

The first victim was a 68-year-old man, who was walking with his wife near the beach huts, at 4.05pm, when he heard a "pop" or "bang" noise, and felt a pain in his buttock.

At 4.20pm, a man walking further along Sea Road, near Sea Lane, was shot in the stomach. A small metal pellet was found close by, which it is believed was fired from a BB gun, possibly from a passing silver car.

Sgt Peter Allan, of Littlehampton Police, said: "Both of these men were extremely lucky to have only received minor bruising, their injuries could have been much more serious.

"This behaviour was totally irresponsible, and when the suspect or suspects are identified they are liable to arrest for assault and firearms offences.

He added that it was illegal to be in a public place of a weapon that looks like a gun.

"People have been arrested for merely possessing a BB gun, so the consequences of apparently innocent play can lead to a criminal record."

Anyone with information should call PC John Todd of Littlehampton Police on 0845 60 70 999, quoting reference number 1200 21/4/09.

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