This afternoon in Rochdale, an air ambulance was deployed following a shooting that resulted in critical injuries to a 19-year-old man. Greater Manchester Police received reports of the shooting around 3:20 PM on Beswick Royds Street in the Belfield area. The incident has raised significant concern among local residents, who witnessed a heavy police presence, including armed officers, as emergency services responded to the scene.

Eyewitness accounts shared on social media indicate a chaotic scene, with numerous police vehicles and ambulances converging on the location. The injured individual was transported to the hospital, where he is receiving care for suspected life-changing injuries to his leg. The police have been actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting and have released an initial statement, confirming their response and the current status of the victim.

The escalation of violence in neighborhoods like Belfield has prompted discussions about public safety and crime in Rochdale. As the community grapples with the implications of such incidents, residents are likely to call for increased security measures to prevent future occurrences. The investigation by Greater Manchester Police will likely play a crucial role in addressing these concerns and restoring a sense of safety within the community.