A MAN has been taken to hospital after a suspected shooting in Washington this afternoon.

A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: "At about 2pm today we received a report from the ambulance service that a man had suffered injuries consistent with a gun shot in Washington.

"It is believed the man has been in an altercation with someone outside the One Stop on Blue House Lane when he has been shot.

The 28-year-old victim was taken to hospital where he remains in a critical condition."

Superintendent Paul Stewart said: “We are in the very early stages of our investigation but a man is in a critical condition in hospital.

“Our officers are trying to establish exactly what has happened but we have already spoken to a number of witnesses who were in the area at the time.

“It appears that a firearm has been fired during an altercation and we are trying to identify who has been involved.

“If you were in the area when this incident took place, and have yet to speak to police, then we need you to give us a call.”

He added: “Incidents involving a firearm are very rare and completely unacceptable and we will not rest until we have established what has happened.

“Officers will be conducting high visible patrols in the area into the evening and anyone who has any concerns is encouraged to speak to them.”

Two men – aged 26 and 33 – have been arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent to commit grievous bodily harm (GBH) in relation to a suspected shooting in Washington.

They remain in police custody at this time and enquiries are ongoing. 

Anyone who can assist police is asked to call 101 quoting log 569 10/10/19 or online at the Northumbria Police website.

You can also report anonymously by contacting independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.