Girl, 9, left 'fighting for her life' after being shot while eating with family

A nine-year-old has been left 'fighting for her life' after being shot while out for a meal with her family.

The child was inside a restaurant in Dalston, Hackney when a firearm was discharged from a motorbike outside, police said.

The 'innocent victim' is now in critical condition following the devastating incident.

Three other men, aged 26, 37 and 42 - who were sitting outside the restaurant - were taken to hospital for treatment where their conditions are stable, although one potentially faces life-changing injuries.

The devastating incident took place in Dalston last night (29 May). (PA)

A London Ambulance Service spokesperson said: "We were called at 9.21pm on Wednesday 29 May to reports of a shooting on Kingsland High Street, Hackney.

"We sent resources to the scene, including ambulance crews, advanced paramedics, incident response officers and members of our tactical response unit.

"We also dispatched a trauma team from London Air Ambulance, which consisted of a doctor and a paramedic in a car.

"We treated three adults and one child at the scene before taking them all to a major trauma centre."

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Matt Ward, added: "We know Londoners will be shocked by what has taken place tonight.

"Our thoughts go to all those affected. Fast moving enquiries are under way and we will update as soon as we can. If anyone has any information, please contact us."

The child is now in critical condition following the shooting. (PA)

Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway, of the Metropolitan Police, also said: "We do not believe that the girl and the men injured were known to each other.

"As with any child, she was an innocent victim of the indiscriminate nature of gun crime."

A motorbike believed to have been used in the shooting was recovered in nearby Colvestone Crescent, which police said was stolen.

The force said officers were 'keeping an open mind' as to the motive.

Mr Conway added: "We are keen to identify other witnesses who were in the area around the scene at the time of the shooting.

"Similarly, if you were in the Kingsland High Street area at the time of the shooting and have information or footage from a phone or other device, please share that with us.

"Events such as these are rarely spontaneous. Someone knows who is responsible for this shooting that has left a little girl fighting for her life."

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.