Derbyshire farmer arrested on suspicion of murder has been bailed  

Rob Lomas, 50, has been questioned by police following a fatal shooting in Whaley Bridge on 1st May.  

At the scene, police officers found a man with fatal gunshot wounds. He has now been formally identified as Marcus Smith, 19, of Chapel-en-le-Frith.  

A second man, who is in his teens, was found with a gunshot wound nearby in the same road. He remains in hospital, but his injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.  

Suspects bailed

Mr Lomas, who was then arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder, has now been bailed as the investigation continues.

Derbyshire Police confirmed that three men who have been arrested in connection with the burglary have also been bailed.

The officers are continuing to appeal for witnesses and information on the incident.

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.   

Fundraising

Mr Lomas’ son, Joshua, has set up online fundraising to support the family “through this difficult time”.

By Monday 13th May, £58,000 had been raised. The money is set to be used by the farmer’s family to fund the cost of legal fees.

Organiser Joshua Lomas said: “We are raising much needed funds to support our family and my father, Rob, through this very difficult time.

“Rob has the most steadfast loyalty you could ever wish for in a father and friend and has always been there for me, and all of his many friends.

“As every farmer does, he works relentlessly in all weathers, but always makes time for a brew and a friendly humorous chat.

“During the early hours of 1st May, Rob encountered intruders inside his property, having had a burglary the night prior also.

“Rob, Kate (his partner) and I now need help in the coming weeks. That’s why we need your kind and extremely valuable help.

“Please donate anything you are able to – every pound is hugely appreciated.”

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.