Man in his 50s shot to death in ‘truly shocking’ killing as cops launch urgent hunt for suspect and appeal for help
A MAN in his 50s has been shot dead in a "shocking" attack which has led police to launch an urgent hunt for the suspect.
The "terrifying" incident took place in Elm Street in Stanley, County Durham, before cops were called to reports of a "disturbance" at 5:20pm on Saturday.
Durham Constabulary said: "Police have launched an investigation after a man sadly died in Stanley yesterday afternoon.
"Officers were called to an address in Elm Street at about 5.20pm on Saturday, April 5 following reports of a disturbance."
They said that the man who was in his 50s was pronounced dead at the scene, despite the efforts of paramedics.
The man's family has also been informed of his death.
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Investigators are currently examining the scene, and officers are carrying out house to house questionings.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Superintendent Neil Fuller, of Durham Constabulary, said: “This is a truly shocking incident in which a man has been shot and has sadly died.
“We are carrying out several lines of enquiry and I would urge anyone who has witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage or CCTV and has not yet spoken to officers to get in touch.
“Residents may see an increased police presence in the area.
"I would like to thank them for their support while we carry out this investigation.
“Our thoughts are with the man’s family at this time.”
The force also appealed to the public by asking anyone with information to call them.
The statement added: "Anyone with any information is asked to call Durham Constabulary on 101, or 999 in an emergency, quoting incident number 302 of April 5.
Danielle Scott, who lives a few doors away from the attack, said it was "terrifying".
The local said: "I live on my own with my two-year-old daughter and I walk past that house on a daily basis to take my daughter to the park.
"I normally take her out around that time [of the shooting] as well.
She added: "It's just terrifying not knowing what's going on.
"I never thought I would experience anything like this. I want to move out, I don't want to be here."
Nikki Miller said the victim was a "friendly face" in the community who was well-liked.
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She described the man fondly, saying: "Everyone knew him, there were no bad words about him.
"He was a working man and never in any trouble."
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