Anti-trans youth shoot BB gun at group celebrating Bristol Trans Pride picnic -TGN

The picnic in Bristol was attacked by two individuals with BB guns. (Delivered/Trans Pride South West)

Organizers of a Trans Pride Picnic are dismayed after attendees were reportedly shot at by two anti-trans attackers wielding BB guns.

The alleged attack took place at a Trans Pride Picnic on Sunday (July 2) in Castle Park, Bristol, where more than 100 community members, as well as allies, gathered to meet and chat.

Held on July 2 each year, the event has been described by organizers as a place to have a “pleasant afternoon, coming together as a community, with friends, families and allies in attendance, including young children”.

Trans Pride South West (TPSW) Vice President Kaz told PinkNews that she was chatting with a friend during the afternoon event when she was hit by a small object.

“I thought it was hailstones at first, looked up, but there were no gray clouds above,” she said.

She says she was then hit again at least four times by several orange BB pellets and saw two men in their early twenties firing into the crowd with rapid-fire BB guns.

“They approached those present and stood between us until a trans woman decided to shoo them away,” Kaz continued.

“I was worried that things were about to escalate when they stopped and turned to her, but they eventually ran.”

The two men, dressed in black clothing, reportedly left the scene in the direction of Bristol Bridge.

Kaz confirmed that TPSW officials reported the incident to the police shortly after the incident and that two police officers arrived at the scene.

Avon and Somerset Police told PinkNews an investigation is currently underway and there have been no reports of serious injuries, but those present were shocked by the incident.

CCTV footage is currently being reviewed by detectives, who are treating the incident as a hate crime.

Superintendent Stephanie McKenna said in a statement: “We take hate crime very seriously and do not tolerate it.

“No one should have to put up with these kinds of transgressions, or face discrimination or prejudice just for being themselves,” McKenna continued. “We have reached out to Bristol Pride organizers to update them on our investigation and we encourage anyone who has been the victim of hate crime to speak up.

“As with all major events, officers will be in Bristol this weekend to keep the community safe. If anyone has any concerns, please stop and speak to one of our officers who will be happy to help.”

Officers would like to speak to witnesses who were in Castle Park between 2:30 and 3:00 pm and saw the crime take place.

Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact 101 and quote the reference 5223157339.

“I have evidence that this was a targeted attack,” Kaz added.

“But with the anti-trans rhetoric, I fear that the offenders may have been emboldened when they saw the trans flag we displayed.

“As the organizer of the event, one of my biggest concerns is the safety of the attendees. I was always afraid that an attack would happen, it was very disappointing that this happened because now it prevents me from doing something similar.

Local LGBTQ+ groups share solidarity

Following the incident, several groups across Bristol shared statements expressing their shock at the attack.

Trans and non-binary activism group Bristol Leading Against Transphobia wrote that it was “deeply saddened” by the news, adding that the event was intended to be a “joyful celebration”.

“It is a huge relief that no injuries were reported and that this incident is being treated as a potential hate crime,” their statement continued.

“We are in full solidarity with Trans Pride South West and Bristol Pride, and with the arrival of Bristol Pride it provides a wonderful and powerful opportunity for us as a city to celebrate our diversity, acceptance and inclusion.”

Non-profit organization Stand Against Racism and Inequality also offered their condolences following the incident, saying: “We are so sorry to hear that this happened yesterday.

“We are here to help where we can. There is no place for hatred in our city. People should be able to gather for a joyful event without fear. We stand with everyone involved.”

Anyone who has witnessed or experienced a hate crime is urged to call the police on 101, Crimestoppers anonymous on 0800 555 111 or the True vision website. Always call 999 in case of emergency.