A LEIGH man has been sentenced to spend 17 years in prison after he fired a shotgun through a bedroom door.

Scott Higgins, 35, of Kirkhall Lane, Leigh, has pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life after he fired a shotgun through a bedroom door, which three women were behind.

The incident took place at an address in Worsley Mesnses in Wigan, on Saturday 8 July 2023 in the Worsley Mesnes area.

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The three victims were in the bedroom of the property when they reported hearing two loud bangs on the locked front door, which was subsequently smashed.

They recalled seeing two men running up the stairs, with Higgins brandishing a shotgun.

To protect themselves, the victims quickly slammed the bedroom door, barricading themselves in. After unsuccessful attempts to enter the room, Higgins eventually fired shots at the door, but did not injure any of the women during the incident.

Despite providing a ‘no comment’ interview, Higgins admitted to the firearms offence and was sentenced on Thursday, December 14, at Bolton Crown Court.

Detective Inspector Lee Gridley of Wigan’s CID said, “This incident was extremely distressing to those involved, and I know was of concern to the community at the time.

"Scott Higgins is set to spend a lengthy time in prison for his role in this cowardly act, and is no longer free to commit further harm.

“I’d like to once again thank the victims for their bravery in coming forward to report this incident, as well as the public who assisted us apprehend Scott Higgins at the time.”