Three schools in lockdown in Bristol as police launch manhunt for shooter who gunned down man and left him with life-changing injuries

Marcus Donaldson
Wed, 01 Apr 2026 15:19:25 +0000

Three schools in Bristol have been locked down, and a police manhunt has been launched, after a man in his 20s was rushed to hospital following a shooting in East Bristol.

Bristol Brunel Academy, Two Mile Hill Primary and Chester Park Infant and Junior schools have been closed amid the huge police operation.

Police received reports at 1.47pm that a firearm had been discharged at a vehicle on Speedwell Road in the Speedwell area.

The victim sustained serious injuries described as potentially life-changing, though officers have confirmed his condition is not believed to be life-threatening.

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Armed response units were deployed to assist emergency services at the scene, with an air ambulance transporting the injured man to Southmead Hospital before 2.30pm.

Chief Inspector James Clements of Avon and Somerset Police said: "I know this incident will be incredibly concerning, however we are deploying significant resources, including a National Police Air Service helicopter and our specially-trained firearms officers, as we work to locate the person responsible."

"There is likely to be a significant police presence in the area over the coming days while our investigation continues. Neighbourhood officers will also be carrying out extra patrols and anyone with any concerns can speak with them about these," he added.

Chief Inspector Clements has confirmed that the officers are now analysing CCTV footage and conducting house-to-house enquiries.

The shooting prompted nearby schools to implement precautionary lockdown measures, with Bristol Brunel Academy and Two Mile Hill Primary both restricting access while the situation unfolded.

Bristol Brunel Academy informed parents via message: "Due to an incident in the local community, we have gone in a precautionary lockdown. We will update you as soon as possible."

Speedwell Road remains closed from Wackum roundabout, with a police cordon also established on New Queen Street between Speedwell Road and Two Mile Hill.

A police helicopter circled the area for at least 30 minutes, covering Fishponds, Kingswood and Eastville.

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The suspect has been described as a white male, believed to be in his late teens or early 20s, with a slim frame and standing roughly six feet tall.

At the time of the incident, he was dressed in a grey hooded top and black trousers, with his face concealed by a balaclava.