Teenagers find loaded sawn-off shotgun on Walton playing field
Police say the loaded weapon could have had fatal consequences
Last updated 8th Sep 2025
Three teenagers have found a loaded sawn-off shotgun while out playing in Walton.
At around 8.20pm on Saturday 6th September, police received a report that the firearm was found inside a black Nike bag at Rice Lane recreational ground by three 14-year-old boys while they were playing a game of Manhunt.
The double-barrelled shotgun was loaded with a live cartridge in each barrel. Officers confirmed the weapon has now been made safe and is undergoing forensic testing. Enquiries are continuing.
Detective Inspector Chris Clark from Merseyside Police’s Firearms Investigation Team said:
“This clearly demonstrates how dangerous this situation was and could have had fatal consequences. Thankfully the three boys knew the dangers this firearm posed and alerted police about it.
“We are now forensically testing it to see if it is linked to any incidents.
“We are committed to taking weapons off our streets and, rest assured, if you tell us about any suspected possession or offences we will investigate.
“Merseyside Police pro-actively investigates serious organised crime including the use of guns and the supply and distribution of drugs on Merseyside and is relentless in its pursuit of offenders. Information from the public is vital if we are to breakdown the organised crime groups who bring misery to our streets.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact Merseyside Police via their website or Crimestoppers anonymously.