A “disturbing” air rifle attack on a nine year-old Traralgon girl yesterday has been branded as a “cruel and callous” act by Victoria Police.
The girl was playing in her backyard on Watkins Court with her brother about 5.30pm when she was shot in the buttocks with what police believe was an air rifle gun.
The girl received minor injuries during the incident and was treated at the scene by paramedics.
The girl told police she and her younger sister had been threatened by a suspicious man while playing on Watkins Court earlier the same day.
The man had allegedly pointed a firearm at the children from across the road some distance away.
Investigators believe the shot was fired from the vicinity of Watkins Court. Detective Senior Constable Danny Shaddock said the incident was disturbing.
“To deliberately target a child playing in her own backyard is a cruel and callous act,” Det snr Shaddock said.
“If anyone in the community knows anything about this incident, we would urge them to come forward and provide information to assist us in our investigation.”
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppers.com.au
