Man shot in ‘targeted’ attack in Manchester’s gay village

A man has been injured after being shot in what police have described as a targeted attack in Manchester’s Gay Village.

Greater Manchester Police said officers were called to reports of a disturbance and gunfire in the early hours of Saturday morning on Richmond Street, close to Canal Street in the city centre. On arrival, they found a man in his twenties suffering from a gunshot wound to his leg.

He was taken to hospital for treatment, where his injuries were confirmed to be non-life-threatening.

Police quickly sealed off the area while specialist officers carried out searches. A firearm was later recovered as part of the investigation. Six men, aged between 23 and 26, have been arrested on suspicion of firearms and affray offences and remain in custody for questioning.

Superintendent Stephen Wiggins said the incident is believed to have been targeted and stressed there is no evidence at this stage to suggest it was a hate crime, despite taking place in the heart of Manchester’s LGBTQ+ nightlife district.

“We understand the concern this incident will cause, particularly given the location,” he said. “However, all the information we currently have suggests this was a targeted attack, with no wider risk to the public.”

Extra patrols have been deployed in and around the Gay Village to provide reassurance to residents, businesses and visitors. Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses or anyone with CCTV, dashcam or mobile phone footage from the area at the time to come forward.

Investigations remain ongoing.