Eyewitnesses told Manchester Evening News that they had seen dozens of officers – some armed – on Quinney Crescent and Great Western Street, two intersecting roads in the Moss Side neighborhood. Police confirmed officers had been called to reports of a shooting and warned locals to avoid the area.
Photos of the scene show that there is a lot of police in the cordoned off area, including a number of police vehicles. Ambulances are also visible, but it is not yet known if there were any injuries.
A police helicopter has also been spotted circling the area – a short distance from Princess Road (A5103), a major artery of the city.
At 2 a.m., forensic teams were pictured arriving at the scene.
One person claimed they were driving along Princess Road around 10:30pm last night when they heard a gunshot and “saw a few people running”.
A reporter at the scene said “numerous witnesses” had told them a vehicle had stopped outside a house where a party was being held before the shots were fired, but these reports have not been confirmed.
A spokesman for the Greater Manchester Police Department told the local outlet early this morning: “Police are currently responding to a reported firearms discharge at Quinney Crescent, Manchester.
“There are road closures. The public is asked to avoid the area.
“Anyone with information should contact GMP citing 3388 07/29/22. Information may also be shared anonymously through the independent charity – Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
Moss Side has a historic reputation for high crime; two years ago, two men were reportedly shot dead at a party.
The intersection, which has been closed after last night’s incident, is located west of Princess Road, near housing and a small green, about 11 minutes’ drive from the city centre.
More to follow…