Girl, eight, injured in London shooting was in car with two-year-old, police say

A 22-year-old man has been apprehended following an incident in which an eight-year-old girl sustained serious injuries from gunfire directed at a vehicle in west London.

The little girl was in the car with her 34-year-old father, who was badly hurt, along with her two-year-old sibling and her 32-year-old mother, both of whom were unharmed.

The Metropolitan Police reported that the individual was taken into custody shortly after the shooting, on charges of attempted murder.

Community members quickly came to the aid of the wounded, with one person even fetching a blanket from their house and covering the child and her father as they awaited paramedics. The incident took place around 5:30 PM on Sunday in Southern Row, Ladbroke Grove.

Authorities reported that the eight-year-old girl is anticipated to recover and has already had surgery following her shooting. Her father suffered serious injuries that will significantly impact his life, but he is also expected to survive.

A person who was nearby visiting her mother shared her experience with PA Media, saying, “I had just walked out of my mom's apartment building when I saw a man with a gun. I was in total disbelief and quickly ran back up the stairs because I felt terrified. Then I noticed the screams and saw others rushing to call the police.”

Sharon, who preferred to remain anonymous, expressed, “Over the past few years, I’ve seen a significant rise in danger for the people in this area. There were numerous gunshots and lots of shouting; it’s terrible. A neighbor even went outside with a blanket to help cover the injured.”

Superintendent Owen Renowden stated, "I understand that any instance of gun violence deeply affects the surrounding community. I've already heard from residents about the impact of last night's event. In the coming days, our neighborhood police teams will remain visible, and we are collaborating with various partners to enhance the presence of all services in the area."

A witness shared with Metro, “I heard gunfire followed by a woman yelling, ‘my baby, my baby has been shot.’”

A local resident, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed her fear following the shooting. Initially, she believed the loud bangs were just fireworks.

Local MP Joe Powell expressed that many residents are feeling anxious due to a string of violent occurrences. In a post on X, the Labour MP representing Kensington and Bayswater remarked, “These pointless acts of violence are unacceptable in our community. I understand that people living in the area have valid concerns about their safety following the recent events in the neighborhood.”

The police are asking anyone who may have seen something to get in touch. You can reach them at 101 and mention the reference number CAD5238/24NOV. Alternatively, you can report information anonymously via Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or through their website.