Family 'forever in debt' to those who tried to save dad in shooting

The family of a "devoted dad" fatally shot outside a gym has thanked members of the public and paramedics who fought in vain to save him.

Lenny Scott, 33, was fatally injured in Peel Road, Skelmersdale, at around 19:35 GMT on Thursday 8 February.

Mr Scott's family released a statement that paid tribute to a "lovable" and "wonderful" man.

A 25-year-old man from Kensington, Liverpool, is in police custody being questioned on suspicion of murder.

Lancashire Police said a suspect fled the scene of the shooting on a bike, thought to be either an e-bike or scrambler bike, wearing black clothing with an orange high-vis jacket.

Mr Scott, from Prescot in Merseyside, was found outside the gym with "serious wounds" and later died in hospital.

In a statement released by Lancashire Police, his family said their "hearts were broken forever" by Mr Scott's death.

They said: "Lenny was a devoted dad. He lived for his children. They were everything to him, as he was to them. He was a beloved daddy, son, grandson, nephew, cousin, friend and colleague.

"He was the biggest, funniest and most lovable person. He had such a big presence and would light up any room he walked into. His strength, laughter, hugs, sense of humour and banter were second to none."

The family said they had been "so proud" to receive loving messages and comments from the community about Lenny since he had passed away.

They added: "We would like to thank all those who tried so desperately to save Lenny. His friends and the emergency services who never gave up on him, who made sure he was not alone when we weren't there.

"We take so much comfort knowing that he had people he cared for around him, we will forever be in your debt. We would also like to thank Lancashire Police - your help, support and dedication is amazing."

Lancashire Police said its investigation is continuing and urged anyone who noticed someone matching the description of the suspect on the bike to get in touch.

The force also asked the public to report any "abandoned bikes" in the area of the shooting.

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