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Teenager held over shooting of boy, 4, with military flare
17 Nov 2009Police investigating the firing of a distress flare which critically injured a four-year-old boy were questioning a teenager today.
An 18-year-old man was arrested yesterday afternoon in connection with the attempted murder of the child, Scotland Yard said.
The boy is fighting for life in hospital after being hit by the flare while walking with his family in Romford, Essex.
Police said the flare appeared to have been set off horizontally rather than vertically in an "horrific incident" as the young boy, who has not been named, walked with his mother, father and baby sister.
He was taken to Queen's Hospital, Romford, then transferred later to a central London hospital, where his condition was described as critical but stable.
Police were called by the London Ambulance Service, which initially believed the boy had been struck by a firework.
But forensic officers found the remains of a hand-held parachute-assisted rocket flare close to where the incident happened in Chatteris Avenue, Harold Hill, shortly after 3.30pm on Saturday.
Detectives want to trace a young black boy who was asking about the boy's condition at the scene before police arrived and a woman driver who gave first aid to the boy and offered to take him to hospital.
The victim is understood to have suffered severe internal injuries.
Det Insp David Cavanagh, leading the investigation, said: "There are two potential witnesses that we are keen to speak to, whom we believe can help our inquiries into this horrific incident.
"Firstly, we would like to hear from a woman who stopped her car and administered first aid to the boy and was even willing to take the child to hospital prior to the paramedics arriving and taking the boy.
"Secondly, we are keen to trace a person described to us as a young black boy who was enquiring with people at the scene as to how the boy was, but left prior to the arrival of police at the scene.
"If you are one of these people, or you know who they may be, please call us.
"We are also keen to hear from anyone who was in or around the area around the time of the incident who may have seen or heard anything they thought might be suspicious.
"It is possible that they could have information, no matter how big or small they think it is, that could assist our enquiries and urge them to contact us."
Mr Cavanagh told London's Evening Standard newspaper that the boy's father heard a "whooshing" sound then he and the boy were knocked off their feet.
Any witnesses or anyone with information is asked to call Havering CID on 01708 779197, or if they wish to remain anonymous, Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
