A TEENAGER was shot twice with an air rifle from the window of a car as he made his way to the bus station.

Police are appealing for witnesses after the 15-year-old boy was targeted on Monday, January 9.

At around 7.30pm the boy was walking near the viaduct in the area of West Road and Bridge Street, in Bishop Auckland, County Durham, when a black vehicle pulled up alongside him.

A single shot was fired from an open window, which was believed to be from an air rifle.

The teenager was struck in the chest causing him to fall to the ground, and was then shot again in the back.

The vehicle, which had blacked out windows and large alloy wheels, then drove off in the direction of Bishop Auckland Rugby Club.

It is believed to have been either a Volkswagen Golf or MG Rover.

PC Stephen Ward, investigating the incident, said: "This was a particularly terrifying attack, one of which has left the victim very shaken."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Durham Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Do you know the victim? Call the newsdesk on 01325-505065