Shocking CCTV footage shows moped gunman in drive-by shooting

Detectives have released shocking footage of a moped driver gunning down a man in a drive-by shooting in a residential north west London street.

A 21-year-old man was left with life-changing injuries after sustaining gunshot wounds to his back, hand and hip.

Scotland Yard has made the CCTV public in an appeal to help trace the attacker.

The victim was speaking to a friend in the street when the suspect approached on a moped.

CCTV footage captures the gunman driving circling around, before pulling to a stop a few metres away and switching off his lights.

The two men turn to look at the moped rider, but are unconcerned.

The shocking footage shows the gunman pulling out a firearm shooting the pair.

The victim who was hit dives behind a car to take cover, while his friend scrambles desperately to run away.

The rider fires a number of shots before calmly driving away.

Armed police were immediately scrambled to Cairnfield Avenue, Harlesden, at 12.35am on August 24.

Despite an extensive area search, the suspect was not located.

Detectives established a crime scene and a number of bullet casings were recovered.

The victim continues to recover from his injuries at home.

His friend did not sustain any injuries.

Scotland Yard said that investigations into the potential motive and circumstances are ongoing.

Officers have released footage of the terrifying attack in the hopes it may jog the memories of people who might have seen the person in the area before or after the incident.

Det Con Oliver Kotis said: "I would urge anyone who lives in the area to check doorbell and dashcam footage to see if they might have captured this person in the area.

“But for sheer luck we could have had two people shot dead in the street.

“This could have been a double murder investigation.

"The suspect is a dangerous offender who has access to a firearm and we have seen that they are prepared to use it.

"It is vital that we catch them.

“Police and communities must work together to apprehend violent criminals who cause bloodshed and misery on our streets.

“Silence protects them - please, if you can help us, make contact.

“We will speak to you in the strictest of confidence.

"Alternatively, if you are someone that doesn't want to engage with the police, you can use anonymous methods such as Crimestoppers - we will not even know your name.

“What matters most is that you make the call and help us catch a violent criminal."

Anyone who can help police should call 101 ref CAD 158/24 August.

Alternatively tweet @MetCC, or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111