Firearm incident in Leyland

We have charged a man in relation to an incident where a firearm was discharged in Leyland.

At 10.19pm on Friday 18th July we were called to reports of a shotgun being discharged on Dunkirk Lane, Leyland.

Armed officers quickly attended and found two men – aged in their 20s and 40s – and two woman – aged in their 20s and 50s - had all suffered minor injuries.

A 31-year-old man was arrested in Penwortham on Monday night.

Following consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service, Christopher Handley, 31, of Sherburn Road, Penwortham, has been charged with possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, possession of a firearm in a public place, possession of a firearm when prohibited, assault causing actual bodily harm x3, unlawfully and maliciously wounding/ inflicting grievous bodily harm, acquiring, using, or possessing criminal property, and possession of cocaine.

He has been remanded in custody to appear at Preston Magistrates Court today (Wednesday 23rd July).

The firearms incident is being linked to an earlier assault in the outside beer garden area of The Dunkirk Hall pub.

A 30-year-old man from Chorley was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm in relation to that matter. However, he has since been released on bail pending further enquiries.

These are being treated as isolated incidents and there is no wider perceived threat to the public.

We continue to appeal for information in relation to both incidents. If you witnessed either, have any CCTV, mobile phone or dashcam footage, or feel you can help us in any way, please call 101 quoting log 1775 of 18th July 2025.