A dog was killed during a “targeted” firearm attack on a 27-year-old man on a Scottish street.
The man is also believed to have been shot after the weapon was used in the Eastfield Road-Dullater Road area of Cumbernauld on Thursday at about 6.55pm.
Four men in a silver Ford Focus as said to have driven into the area and chased the man, who was left with serious injuries to his back.
Three of the men got out of the vehicle. Police say one of them had a firearm and another a “bladed weapon”.
A dog, a white maltichon called Henry – which was being walked by a 52-year-old woman – was killed during the incident as a result of the firearm being used.
The woman is said to have suffered a minor hand injury.
Armed officers responded to the incident, which the force believe to be a “targeted attack”.
Police are still seeking the suspects, who were described as wearing dark clothing and possibly balaclavas at the time of the incident.
The Ford Focus was later found burnt out. Its registration, which was only partially visible, read 67 ZKZ.
Detective Chief Inspector Gillian Grant, the senior investigating officer, said: “This was completely reckless and the fact this happened in a residential street shows the suspects had a complete disregard for the safety of the public.
“A woman who was simply walking her dog has been left absolutely devastated.
“There is an increased police presence in the area and reassurance patrols will be carried out.
“A team of detectives will be conducting CCTV and house-to-house enquiries.
“I would appeal to the public to contact us with any relevant information about this attack because this behaviour cannot be allowed to happen in our communities.
“I would ask specifically if anyone witnessed the attack or saw a silver Ford Focus shortly before or after the incident to contact us.
“Also could I appeal to anyone driving in the Eastfield Road and Dullater Road area last night around 6.55pm to check dash cam footage and contact us.”
Anyone with information should contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident number 3095 of January 23 2020, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
