A Wigan man has been sentenced for firearms offences

A Wigan man has been sentenced to spend 17 years in prison and given a restraining order, following a firearms incident on Saturday 8 July 2023 in the Worsley Mesnes area.

Scott Higgins (29/04/1988) of Kirkhall Lane, Leigh 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 victims were in the bedroom of the property when they reported hearing two loud bangs on the locked front door. This was subsequently smashed. They recalled seeing two men running up the stairs, 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. Thankfully none of the women were physically injured during the incident.

Despite providing a ‘no comment’ interview, Scott Higgins at court admitted to the firearms offence and was sentenced yesterday (Thursday 14 December 2023) 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.”

Scott Higgins