A 23-year-old man became the Island’s latest victim of gun violence after shots rang out at a residence near Mission Lane, Pembroke.

The shooting occurred around 1am yesterday. It followed just days after a firearm was reportedly brandished in the street near Hamilton Police Station.

According to police, the victim’s injuries do not appear to be life-threatening.

Police arrived at the scene to learn that the victim had been taken to hospital in a private car, according to a police statement issued last night.

“Detectives from the Serious Crime Unit commenced investigations and enquiries have revealed that the victim briefly exited the residence where he, and possibly another male, were targeted by an unknown gunman.

“The victim received a single gunshot wound to his lower back torso region, and has undergone surgery.

“A forensic examination of the scene has been completed and the evidence recovered will be subject to further testing in the coming days.

“Detectives have completed an area canvass speaking with and recording statements from witnesses and area residents.

“Officers are keen to speak with anyone that can assist the enquiry team with information that will lead to bringing the offender(s) to justice.

“The suspect is believed to be a male wearing dark clothing that was on foot in the area of the house at the time, which is located near the junction with North Shore Road.

“Investigators believe that the suspect departed from the scene in a private motor car following the shooting.

“Many of the details surrounding this incident are not clear; however investigators are working with both the victim and witnesses to obtain more information.”

A Band Room Lane resident said she had been awake at the time of the shooting, which she said occurred in a nearby house where people had gathered and music was playing.

“I heard about five shots which woke up my baby,” she said later yesterday morning. “The shots sounded slow and they were clear as day. All I know is I am wide-awake now and I didn’t sleep all night.”

She added: “This is the third time I heard shooting, but it’s the first time I heard [shots fired] so close.”

Police issued an appeal for witnesses or anyone with any information to telephone Detective Inspector Greenidge on 247-1185 or the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers hotline, 800-8477.