A gunman is on the run after two teenagers were seriously injured in a shooting incident early Friday morning in Collingwood, Melbourne. The Victoria Police reported multiple shots were fired at about 1 am, targeting a group of youths gathered on Vere Street, close to Palmer Street. Emergency services responded swiftly to reports of the shooting, where both victims, aged 15 and 17, were discovered with serious injuries.
Upon their discovery, the boys, both locals from Collingwood, were rushed to hospital. The older of the two, aged 17, was reported to be fighting for his life due to life-threatening injuries, whereas the 15-year-old was being treated for serious, but less severe, wounds. Police are investigating the circumstances behind the shooting, which they believe to have been part of a larger brawl among the youth present at the scene.
According to witnesses, the violence erupted after groups of teenagers reportedly engaged in fights on Hoddle Street before the gunfire began. A local resident, Mark, recounted hearing about half a dozen shots fired during the chaos. He stated, “I think the reaction [of local residents] will be stunned.” Indeed, many community members expressed shock over the incident, emphasizing how the area had previously been viewed as safe.
Another witness, an 18-year-old resident, commented, “I don’t know them properly but I see them around... It’s a tragedy. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone.” This incident has raised significant concerns about safety within the community, as many residents were left rattled by the disturbance.
Local authorities have cordoned off multiple blocks around the shooting site as forensic teams scoured the area for evidence. They were seen marking several points with evidence markers, and police have increased their presence throughout Collingwood to offer reassurance to concerned residents.
“Detectives believe the incident was a targeted attack and are working to establish the exact circumstances,” said a police spokesperson. The authorities are urging anyone with information or footage of the incident to step forward and assist their investigation. A Crime Stoppers link and hotline have been made available, allowing witnesses to report their insights anonymously.
The community remains on edge, with police emphasizing their commitment to resolve the case and find the shooter. No arrests have been made yet, and the investigation is still underway. Fellow community members who gathered on the scene expressed their disbelief about the violence, stressing the need for improved safety measures.
Police are expected to hold briefings to provide updates on the investigation, as the community awaits developments. Parents are advised to speak with their children about the seriousness of the situation, hoping to prevent any involvements with gang-related activities and push for local youth outreach programs to support young people effectively.
Such incidents have occasionally marred properties and reputations of inner-city neighborhoods, making it even more important for local governments and communities to unify against gun violence. The ramifications of this shooting could lead to calls for stricter regulations and community awareness campaigns as residents seek to take tangible steps toward reclaiming their streets.
For the time being, the local authorities and community members alike are left to grapple with the shocking reality of this shooting, hoping for swift recoveries for the young victims and justice to be served against those responsible.