On Monday 29 July 2013 about 10.15pm two men were walking down York Street, Launceston, approaching the Charles Street intersection.  At this time a dark coloured Commodore sedan has also been travelling south on York Street and upon seeing the two men, has changed lanes to get closer.

As the Commodore has drawn level with the two men, a male person has from a sitting position on the front passenger door, fired a number of shots towards the two men with what appears to be a pistol.  All shots have missed the two men.

At the same time a group of youths were seated on the footpath about 100 metres east of the two men and one of these youths has been struck in the lower leg by a stray bullet.  The injury to the 19 year old was not life threatening and will require day surgery to remove the projectile.

“From enquiries to date it is apparent this incident is directly linked to a matter in Rocherlea in May where a man was shot in the leg.  This incident appears to be in retaliation for that matter,” said Detective Inspector Scott Flude.

At this time neither of the two men shot at are willing to make a complaint nor identify the person who has fired the shots.

“Unfortunately for police and the community, an innocent member of the public has been injured as a result of the criminal element openly firing shots in a public place with little regard for anyone’s safety,” he said.

Police are appealing to anyone who may have information about this incident to contact Northern Criminal Investigation Branch direct on 6336 3911, or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.  Information to Crime Stoppers can be given anonymously and in some cases a reward may be given for information leading to the arrest of offender/s.