A horrifying incident unfolded at the Showcase Cinema de Lux Liverpool in the Croxteth area of the city when a gunman opened fire during a screening of the film “Wonka.” Families attending the movie night were left in a state of panic and terror.
According to an eyewitness, a man entered the cinema and pointed a shotgun at a woman behind the counter before firing a shot and making a hasty escape on foot. The incident took place around 8:50 pm on January 3, 2024.
Armed police rapidly descended upon the area, ensuring the safety of the cinema’s patrons, who were ushered to safety off the East Lancs Road. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported as a result of the shooting.
A father who had taken his daughter to watch the movie “Wonka” revealed that he and others were kept inside the cinema for approximately 45 minutes. He described the shocking scene, stating that the armed police response team rushed in as they exited the cinema screen.
The chaos began earlier in the evening when the first shooting transpired at approximately 8:30 pm in a shop on Lower House Lane, located just around the corner from the cinema. Approximately 20 minutes later, the gunman entered the cinema, and it is yet unclear whether he discharged his weapon inside or outside the cinema.
Both the police force’s helicopter and armed officers were dispatched to the scene, which was situated near the busy East Lancs Road.
A spokesperson for Showcase Cinemas issued a statement, saying, “We are aware of an incident at our cinema and surrounding area in Liverpool. The safety and welfare of our staff and customers are always our number one priority, and we can confirm no one was injured. We would like to thank our team members and the local police for their swift responses to this active investigation.
Merseyside Police confirmed their response to the incident and urged members of the public to remain indoors while the situation is ongoing. Authorities stated that no injuries have been reported thus far and requested anyone with information regarding the incident to call 999.
The incident remains under investigation, and authorities are working diligently to gather more details and ensure the safety of the community. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
More news from Liverpool
