POLICE are investigating a potential gun shot through a fence and shed at Mount Gambier’s new Springview Estate which is expanding rapidly in former farmland on the western fringes of the city.
Discovered by the resident on Sunday, the bullet hole is believed to have appeared sometime in the preceding few days.
The resident, who does not want to be identified, said the incident was reported to police and she was concerned for public safety.
Her home backs onto a new rail footpath and bicycle track with rural properties beyond that.
The bullet has pierced her rear fence, gone through the steel cladding of a recently constructed shed about two metres away from the fence, travelled through the eight metre shed and was stopped by the roller door on the opposite end of the shed where it put a dent in the roller door.
Fragments of what appeared to be a bullet were found and collected by police for investigation.
“The height of the holes indicate that anyone walking the path would have been hit by it had they been in the way at the time,” the resident said adding that where it entered the shed was only metres from an area where her children often sit and play with their friends.
“It’s shaken us up and I just want people to be aware, and know that if you are shooting close to town to be aware of your backdrops.
“What ever it was has gone through with enough force that I hate to think what would have happened had it hit someone.
“I think it’s important that rural property owners realise that the town is growing and spreading out.”
In a statement, police said they suspect the damage was not intentional, however investigations are continuing.
“Police wish to remind firearms owners about their obligations regarding the safe and proper handling of firearms,” said the statement from police.
“The intentional or reckless discharge of a firearm is illegal and offenders may face severe penalties including fines or imprisonment.”
“You can remain anonymous,” police said encouraging people with information to get in contact.
Any person with information regarding this incident can call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au.
