RESIDENTS have told of their shock after a gun attack in which a man was shot in the face.

Police have launched an investigation after it was reported that a man aged in his 30s was allegedly shot in the face with what is believed to be an air weapon in Carlton Road North, Weymouth.

The pellet penetrated the tear duct of his right eye and lodged itself directly behind the eyeball. He has suffered life-changing injuries and is expected to undergo a series of surgical procedures – but has been warned he may never regain his sight in his right eye.

It has reported that shortly before the incident the victim was involved in an altercation with a group of about five men in Carlton Road North and a number of pellets were fired and bounced off cars. The incident was reported to police on Tuesday March 13; however, it took place on Sunday January 7.

As reported in yesterday's Echo, a man was arrested in connection with the incident on Tuesday.

A local 19-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. A 23-year-old local man has been arrested on suspicion of inflicting grievous bodily harm. They have both been released under investigation while enquiries continue.

A resident of Carlton Road North, who wishes to remain anonymous, said she won't let her child play in the area after hearing about the incident.

She said: “It’s absolutely disgusting. I used to let my child play outside but not after all this trouble, it’s not safe."

Another resident said: “Guns aren’t toys. I am not best pleased that it happened outside my front door.

“It’s not a safe area.”

Another resident said: “You do hear people shouting in the street from time to time. We are aware of what the area is like.”

Brenda Smith, landlord of The Weatherbury pub on Carlton Road North, said: “I have been here 12 years and have never heard of anything like this before, not involving guns anyway. They may be air guns but they’re still dangerous in the wrong hands."

Councillor Tia Roos, who represents Melcombe Regis called the incident ‘shocking’.  She said: “It is a very serious incident, but I am sure the police are doing their best to find out who is responsible.  “It is really shocking that incidents like this are happening in Weymouth.

“As worrying as it is for residents, I would like to assure them that the police will be doing all they can.”

Detectives are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Detective Constable Gerald Marchant, of Weymouth CID, said: “The victim has sustained life-changing injuries and, while I appreciate that this incident occurred over two months ago, we have an obligation to investigate all lines of enquiry. I would urge anyone who recalls witnessing the incident to please make contact with Dorset Police.

“I am also keen to hear from anyone who has any knowledge of the incident. You may have heard someone talking about it or seen some posts on social media – if so please come forward and assist my investigation.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police on 101 1quoting occurrence number 55180038012.