Gunshots were fired “indiscriminately” at a house in Edinburgh while children were inside, police have said.

Detectives are appealing for information about the incident which occurred at 8.40pm on Friday on Burdiehouse Drive.

Although the shots damaged a window, the occupants – a man, woman, and two children – were not injured.

Police said that children were playing in gardens in the street at the time of the shooting and were left “terrified” by what they witnessed.

Detective Inspector Bob Campbell said: “Whilst this may be a targeted attack, the fact is that a number of shots were fired indiscriminately at the house with some ricocheting off the wall and into the garden.

“Children were playing in gardens nearby and there were people in the street at the time,” DI Campbell added.

“Thankfully no-one was injured but the gunman obviously has no regard for anyone in the area, including children, some of whom were really terrified by what happened.

“It is imperative that we find those responsible and for that we need the help of the local community.

“I know that people may be reluctant to come forward and so I would encourage the use of Crimestoppers, where information can be given anonymously.

“Officers have been in the area since the attack checking CCTV and speaking to local residents.”

DI Campbell said that he and his officers were looking for a small black hatchback that was in the area at the time of the shooting, before making off towards Southhouse Broadway.

“I am keen to hear from anyone who has private CCTV or doorbell camera footage, or from motorists driving on Burdiehouse Drive or the surrounding roads between 8.30pm and 8.50pm,” he said.

Any footage provided to the force could prove very useful to the inquiry.

“High visibility officers remain at the scene. We have an incident caravan on Burdiehouse Drive where people can speak to officers with regard to any concerns or provide information. Officers will also be in the local community centre offering support.”

Local community inspector Kieran Dougal added: “We recognise and understand the impact this incident will have had on the residents of Burdiehouse.

“Thankfully firearm incidents like this are rare in Edinburgh and I would stress that the city remains a safe place to live, work and visit,” he added.

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