Newport shooting: Gunman hunt after woman shot at salon

A police hunt for gunman who shot one woman in the knee and injured two others at a hair salon in Newport is continuing overnight.

The man burst in to Carol Ann's salon in the Malpas area of the city at about 14:20 BST forcing customers to flee.

Police have recovered a gun and shell casings and are looking for a grey Mini Cooper, registration number OE55 CVB.

None of the women's injuries are said to be life-threatening. Two of the women were treated in hospital.

Two elderly customers with towels around their heads were seen running from the shop and shouting for help moments after the attack began.

A police helicopter has been involved in the search since armed police arrived at the Malpas Road property and closed the road just north of the city centre.

The salon was sealed off with a blue tent while a forensic science team began an investigation.

Gwent Police advised drivers to find alternative routes out of the city during the evening's rush-hour.

They have appealed for witnesses to the incident and for help in tracking down the escaped gunman.

Speaking at the scene, Supt Peter Keen said: "The man that we're seeking in connection with this incident is believed to be in possession of a grey Mini Cooper car.

"When that car was last seen there was a set of black furry dice in the windscreen. So if people see that car please contact us immediately."

One eyewitness reported hearing two gunshots minutes before police vehicles and a helicopter arrived at the scene.

Another, Susan Wakeham, who runs Hairs & Graces hair salon across the road, said she knew the owner of the premises.

Forensic experts began a painstaking examination of the scene.

She said: "You don't expect something like this to happen on a busy main road on a Friday afternoon. It's quite scary actually.

"I know the salon owner. I know of the girl who's been shot but I don't know her in person. I know the salon owner and she must be in a hell of state."

Police officers are with the three women injured in the attack. One woman was treated for a neck injury, another for an arm injury.