Derbyshire farmer arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder

Derbyshire Police officers were called to reports of a burglary at a property in Whaley Bridge at 1.20am on 1st May.

At the scene they found a man in his late teens who had sustained fatal gunshot wounds.

A second man, who is in his teens, was also found with a gunshot wound nearby. He suffered serious injuries and has been taken to the hospital, where he remains.

Three arrests

A farmer in his 50s has been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder and remains in police custody.   

Derbyshire Police confirmed that the wounded person has also been arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary, as well as a fourth man, in his 20s, after the vehicle he was travelling in was stopped on the A6 near Chapel-en-le-Frith.   

Another burglary

The officers said that they received reports of a burglary at another property on the same road a day before the incident, Tuesday 30th April, at around 3.30pm.   

They attended the scene and investigations into this incident are ongoing.   

A police spokesperson said that at this stage the officers are keeping “an open mind” as to whether the two incidents are linked.  

Impact on rural community   

Divisional commander chief superintendent Dave Kirby said: “We appreciate the impact this incident is having on this small rural community, and we’d like to thank local residents for their help with this investigation so far.   

“We are aware there has been some speculation locally around this, and while we are in the early stages of the investigation, we believe this is a targeted incident. At this stage, we don’t believe there is any wider risk to the public.  

“Residents in the area will see an increased police presence in the area for some time as investigations continue, and we will provide further updates as soon as we are able.   

“In the meantime, I’d ask anyone who has any information to please contact us, in confidence, using any of the below methods.”   

If you have any information that can assist the investigation, you can contact the incident room directly here.   

You can also anonymously contact the independent charity CrimeStoppers, on 0800 555 111, or by visiting the CrimeStoppers website.   

READ MORE: Body of Yorkshire farmer recovered following disappearance

UK gun regulations   

According to the UK government guideline, permission to possess, purchase or acquire a firearm will only be granted to an individual who is assessed by the licensing authority, the police, as not posing a threat to public safety and having good reason to own the firearm.   

Organisations such as target shooting clubs, museums and firearms dealers must also apply for licences if they wish to possess or use firearms.    

Persons who are sentenced to a term of imprisonment of three years or more cannot possess a firearm or ammunition (including antique firearms) at any time.   

The police are the licensing authority for firearm and shotgun certificates, as well as for firearms dealers.   

The conditions of a firearm or shotgun certificate stipulate that guns must be stored securely so as to prevent access by an unauthorised person.   

Any concerns in regards to a firearm owner should be reported to your local police force.  

Read more rural crime news.