TWO teenage boys have been arrested for several offences including possession of a firearm after a police chase in Chelmsford.

Police are appealing for information about two shootings in the city that occurred within an hour of each other. 

At 8.30pm on Thursday, June 15, police received reports that a car was damaged in Rutland Road, Chelmsford, by what is believed to be a blunt instrument. 

Officers then received reports that shots had been fired in Hall Lane, Sandon, at around 11.30pm causing damage to a door. 

At around 12.20am, another gun was fired in Hobart Close, Chelmsford, also causing damage to a door. A silver coupe-type car was then seen leaving the area towards Queensland Crescent. 

Police responding to intelligence then followed a Mazda Sport driving in High Bridge Road at around 11am yesterday. The car was found decamped in Widford Road following a pursuit. 

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "We arrested a 17-year-old on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon and drugs, failing to stop and possession of a firearm with intent.

"A 16-year-old was also arrested on suspicion of possession of drugs and possessing a firearm with intent close to the scene. Both have released under investigation."

Officers also executed a warrant at a property in New Writtle Street, Chelmsford, at 7.30pm yesterday in connection with these incidents. No arrests were made and enquiries are continuing. 

Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Danny Stoten, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: “These incidents are being treated as connected crimes and appear to be specifically targeted. 

“The general public are not at a greater risk and I would ask that anyone that saw cars or anyone acting suspiciously in these roads at the times of these incidents to please contact the police. 

“I would also request that anyone with CCTV or dash cameras in these locations to contact the Harlow Major Crime Team on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”