SHEFFIELD — Detectives have launched an attempted murder investigation following a “violent and abhorrent” shooting in Darnall on Christmas night that has left a 20-year-old man in critical condition.
South Yorkshire Police confirmed that emergency services were scrambled to Wilfred Drive at 11:27 PM on Wednesday, December 25, following reports of a firearm discharge. Upon arrival, officers discovered a young man with a life-threatening gunshot wound to his chest. He was rushed to a local hospital, where he remains today in a critical, life-threatening condition.
Swift Police Action
In a fast-moving operation overnight, the Major Crime Team executed a series of arrests. Four men—aged 20, 22, 28, and 29—were taken into custody on suspicion of attempted murder. They remain in police detention as of Thursday afternoon.
A large police cordon remains in place on Wilfred Drive today, December 26, as forensic teams continue to sweep the area for evidence. Local residents can expect a heightened police presence throughout the Boxing Day holiday.
“Abhorrent Incident”
Senior Investigating Officer, Chief Inspector Andy Knowles, condemned the violence, highlighting the risk such crimes pose to the wider public.
“This is an abhorrent incident that has left a man fighting for his life,” Chief Inspector Knowles said. “Gun crime poses a great threat to the safety and wellbeing of our community, putting innocent people at risk of being caught up in an offender’s actions. It will not be tolerated.”
The Chief Inspector emphasized that while the force is taking “firm, decisive action,” the success of the investigation relies heavily on community cooperation. “We are thankful to those who have assisted officers so far in our enquiries and urge anyone who believes they have footage or information to get in touch.”
Appeal for Information
Authorities are urging anyone with dashcam or CCTV footage from the Wilfred Drive area between 11:00 PM and midnight on Christmas Day to come forward immediately.
Members of the public who wish to provide information can do so via the following channels:
- Phone: Call 101 quoting incident number 732 of 25 December 2025.
- Online: Submit a report via the South Yorkshire Police portal.
- Anonymous: Contact the independent charity Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or visit Crimestoppers-uk.org. Reporting through this channel is 100% confidential.
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