Dad fights for life after motorbike hitmen shot him in front of his young son as the pair waited at traffic lights

A DAD is in a critical condition after being shot in front of his young son as they waited at traffic lights in Salford on Tuesday afternoon.

The victim, in his 30s, was shot in the chest and shoulder by two hitmen on a motorbike on Eccles New Road at the junction of Langworthy Road around 2.40pm.

The injured dad drove himself and the child, who was not injured, to nearby Salford Royal Hospital where he is fighting for his life.

One witness said the child raced into hospital pleading for help from medics.

Detective Inspector Chris Mannion, from Greater Manchester Police’s Salford district, said: “A man has been taken to hospital in a critical condition.

“There is a large police presence at the scene, including armed officers, who will be there for some time carrying out their enquiries.

“If you were in the area and you saw what happened, or if you witnessed anything suspicious, then please get in touch with us as a matter of urgency.”

A spokesperson at the Salford Royal Hospital added: “There is increased security in the emergency department following an incident this afternoon.”

One witness said: “I was in the front garden and heard a bang. It was about 2.40pm when we heard it. Next we heard was that this had happened.

“Now I’m a nervous wreck, it makes you feel not safe. I’m scared of going out the door now.”

Eccles New Road is currently shut at the junction with Langworthy Road, according to Transport for Greater Manchester.

Anyone with information should call police on 101, quoting incident number 1205 of 30/04/2018, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.