A 48-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a father-of-four was shot multiple times while attempting to break up a road rage incident in Woolwich, South London. The 32-year-old victim remains in critical condition.
Police were called to France Street at approximately 8:09 p.m. on Thursday following reports of gunfire. Responding officers found the victim in his parked car with gunshot wounds. Emergency services, including the London Air Ambulance, provided treatment at the scene before he was airlifted to an east London hospital. Reports indicate the man was shot in the face.
The suspect fled the scene in a dark-colored saloon vehicle, heading in the direction of Woolwich Church Street. Detectives announced the arrest of a 48-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. The individual is currently in custody.
Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley of the Met's Specialist Crime Command stated that the investigation is ongoing into the incident, which he described as a "senseless act of violence." He urged anyone with information, however minor it may seem, to come forward and assured that any information provided would be treated confidentially.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting CAD 6520/22OCT, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.
The incident occurred near the Royal Artillery Barracks, a site scheduled for closure in 2028.