Police are appealing for witnesses after a double shooting in Clerkenwell left a man fighting for his life.

Two men, aged 20 and 19, were targeted in what police have described as an “awful” shooting in Rosebery Avenue late on Friday night.

Those nearby heard gunshots and called the police just after 10pm. Officers arrived with paramedics to find the men suffering with gunshot wounds. Both were taken to hospital.

The attack left the 20-year-old man in a “life-threatening condition”, and his family are being supported by specially trained officers. The 19-year-old’s wounds were less severe. 

Police say they believe two “men or teenage boys” are behind the attack. After the shooting, they say the two suspects escaped the scene via an alleyway leading to St John’s Road, and then Wyclif Street.

No arrests have been made, but police are appealing for witnesses who might be able to help track down those who were involved.

Detective Inspector Darren Jones, who is leading the investigation, said: “This is a fast-moving and complex investigation. We are doing everything we can to track down the person, or people, responsible for this awful attack. My thoughts are with the victims and their families at this time.

“Our initial enquiries suggests the pair were attacked by two suspects, who are thought to be men or teenage boys. They left the scene down an alleyway towards St John’s Road and then onto Wyclif Street.

“I would ask anyone who was in the area at around the time of the incident, and say any suspicious activity, to contact us immediately.”

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is asked to call 101 quoting CAD 7488/09Sep.