Police plea as manhunt for masked raider who shot pensioner with air gun in South Shields home continues

An 84-year-old man was taken to hospital after an aggravated burglary at his South Shields home, which saw an intruder fire a suspected air gun before fleeing the address empty-handed.

The raider had forced his way into the address and demanded money from the pensioner, who then confronted him with a broomstick.

The incident happened at around 5.30pm on Tuesday, January 7 at Manet Gardens in Whiteleas. The victim was at home alone.

Detectives have launched an investigation to determine a timeline of what happened and try to locate those responsible.

Northumbria Police is calling for witnesses to come forward with any information, “no matter how small”.

Detective Chief Inspector Sean Mcguigan said in a statement: “This is clearly a very serious incident that has resulted in a pensioner being taken to hospital.

“The victim showed incredible bravery when confronting the raider but has been left understandably shaken by what happened.

“Crimes of this nature are rare in this area but I fully understand the effects that this type of incident can have on not only the victim and their family, but the wider community as a whole.

“As a result, we are committed to carrying out a swift and thorough investigation to ensure those responsible are located and arrested.

“We are satisfied that there is no wider threat to the public, but an increased police presence will be seen in the area as officers carry out inquiries and offer reassurance to residents.

“I would now ask anybody who saw anything suspicious in the Manet Gardens area yesterday teatime to come forward.

“Your information – no matter how small – may be crucial in ensuring those responsible for this crime are rightly brought to justice.”

The attacker is described as white and around 6ft tall. He wore dark clothing and a mask.

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting log 841 070120 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.