BMW driver, 21, shot dead at Sheffield car wash as police hunt suspects who fled in white Ford

Police have launched a murder investigation after a man was shot and killed at an inner-city car wash yesterday.

The 21-year-old man, who hasn’t been named, was killed in a car after a gunman opened fire at the Diamond Car Hand Wash, in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, at 6.45pm.

A blue BMW 3 Series with bullet hole marks in its windscreen and car bonnet was visible at the scene, on Burngreave Road, north of the city centre.

Police believe the suspects left the scene in a white Ford Fiesta that was later found burned out three miles away from incident. 

There were believed to be two bullet holes through the BMW’s windscreen and four on the bonnet.

Armed police have sealed off the road this morning, while other officers continued their inquiries.

The area was cordoned off overnight for forensic specialists to begin examining the scene, following the shooting.

Detective Chief Inspector Mick Hakin, senior investigating officer, said: ‘This incident will understandably cause shock and concern in the local community. 

‘I want to reassure residents that a dedicated team of officers will be working around the clock to piece together the circumstances of what has happened and trace those responsible. 

‘In the meantime, patrols have increased in the local area and I’d encourage anyone who is worried to speak to these officers — they are there to help you feel safe.’

Detective Chief Inspector Hakin confirmed that the victim was sat inside the blue BMW, parked at the Diamond Car Wash when the car was shot.

‘The offenders are believed to have left the scene in a white Ford Fiesta,’ he said. ‘The Fiesta was later found burned out in Darnall.

‘I’m now eager to hear from anyone who has information about what happened, or who may have CCTV or dashcam footage which would be helpful to the investigation team.

‘If you know something — I urge you to tell us. A family has lost a son.’

Detective Chief Inspector Hakin said that police are determined to get answers for the family at this ‘horrendous time’.      

Emergency services were called to the car wash at 6.45pm yesterday evening following reports that shots had been fired.

The man was taken to hospital but was pronounced dead a short time later. His family have been informed and are being supported by specially-trained officers.

Police appealed for anyone with information relating to the murder to call 101 quoting incident number 774 of 29 March. 

This is the second time the police have cordoned off the hand car wash following an attack at its premises.

In May 2017, witnesses reported seeing a group of men using metal bars to attack a man and smash up cars, leading South Yorkshire police to launch an investigation.

A male witness, who wished to remain anonymous, said at the time: ‘A Seat in the car wash was smashed up, and another car looked like it had tried driving off but had smashed into someone else’s car.’