Man charged over paintball gun attacks in Christchurch

A 22-year-old man will appear in Christchurch District court on Thursday 13th June charged with reckless discharge of a firearm following a number of incidents at the weekend involving a paintball gun being fired from a vehicle.

Police would like to hear from anyone who was targeted by the occupants of a black sedan, or witnessed the vehicle firing at pedestrians and cyclists, on Friday night and the early hours of Saturday morning.

One cyclist and at least three pedestrians were shot at in the Riccarton Road and Lincoln Road areas. Seven bus shelters were also damaged around the Riccarton/Lincoln Rd/Ferry Road areas.

Inspector Derek Erasmus says police want to hear from anyone with information:

"This is a serious incident and we are fortunate that no one was hurt as a result of this reckless behaviour.

"At this stage we know of four victims plus seven bus shelters which were damaged.

"However it is quite possible that there are further victims out there who have not yet spoken to police, or damage which is yet to be reported.

"We know this vehicle was driving around the city for a considerable time on Friday night/early Saturday morning.

"Although we have located the vehicle and are speaking to the occupants we need the public's help to build a full picture of where it went and what the occupants were doing.

"If you were targeted and have not yet contacted police, or saw this black sedan acting suspiciously that night, then please get in touch with us." said Mr Erasmus.

Three paintball and air guns have been recovered and police inquiries are continuing with a view to further charges being laid.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Constable Miriam Erber on 021 191 1365. Information can also be given anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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