Yeovil police appeal for help after air rifle attack on cyclist

Avon & Somerset Police are appealing for help in finding someone who shot a cyclist with an air rifle. The incident took place at in Yeovil at around 3.40pm last Thursday 2 December when the 44-year-old victim was riding along a path between the Bowlplex car park and Summerhouse view.

Police say that the cyclist “heard a loud popping noise and felt some pain in his right knee, which was slightly cut,” and that “he saw three people in some trees, one with an air rifle fitted with what's thought to be a telescopic sight.”

Sergeant Paul Hayward said: "The consequences of such a stupid act could have been very serious - an accidental shot to the head could result in permanent damage to an eye. This was not a toy gun - it is a dangerous air rifle and to use it in such a way is a serious criminal offence.



"Police would like to hear from anyone who has knowledge of this incident. Only one male fired the weapon from the group of three present. I would urge the other two to get in touch, to help us take this weapon off the streets.

“Perhaps you have heard someone bragging about this incident or something similar

"Parents - I would urge you to keep a close eye on children or young adults who may possess such an item. It is a criminal offence to have one in public or to fire it on any public area."



Anyone with information should contact Yeovil police on 0845 456 7000, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.