Police say Horden shooting was a "targeted attack" as attempted murder investigation continues

Durham Constabulary is leading the inquiry into the shooting on Moutter Close in Horden, which took place in the early hours of Sunday, December 8.

It is now being investigated as a suspected attempted murder.

On Wednesday, December 11, police confirmed that they believe the attack, which has left a man seriously hurt, was an isolated incident.

Temporary Chief Inspector, Lee Blakelock, has reassured members of the public.

He said: “First is that incidents and violence of this type are very rare. We believe this to be a targeted attack and, at this moment, we don’t believe any other members of the public are at risk.

“Second is that, again, we will continue to do searches in and around the Horden area.

“Officers have several scenes contained and will be manned so please bear with us while we carry out the operation and we will hopefully return to normality in the very near future.”

It has also been confirmed that although the victim’s injures are serious, “they are not life-threatening.”

Five people have now been arrested throughout the investigation. Three of these people have been released under investigation while two of them remain in custody at this time – a man and a woman.

Durham County Council said its household waste recycling centre at Horden is temporarily closed while investigations continue.

The local authority advised that bins are being collected as normal, and that anyone with a waste permit can use it at any of its other sites.

Officers are currently examining a number of locations across Peterlee and Horden as part of their investigation.

Witnesses to the incident or anyone who may have any information are asked to call Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting the incident reference 51 of December 8.

Alternatively, any information can be passed on anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.