A man is in a critical condition after being shot in the head in Toxteth.
Police were called to Adele Thompson Drive at around 10.35pm on Friday to reports that a man in his 20s had been discovered by a member of the public.
He was taken to hospital where his condition is currently described as critical.
Crime scene investigators are carrying out forensic examinations at the scene and house-to-house inquiries are underway. Officers will also be looking at CCTV from the area to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
High visibility patrols have been stepped up in the area to reassure the public.
A dark blue Volvo, registration YK53 JEO, was found on fire at the back of the Queens public house on Admiral Street, just after midnight.
Detectives are trying to ascertain if this is linked to the shooting and are appealing to anyone who may have seen it earlier in the evening, or when it was being abandoned, to contact them.
DCI Andy Ryan, said: “The investigation is in its early stages and at this time the motive for the shooting is unknown.
“I would urge anyone who was in Adele Thompson Drive or the surrounding areas at the time of the incident, who may have heard or seen anything suspicious to please come forward.
“You may have witnessed the incident, seen people making off from the scene or have dashcam footage. Any information, no matter how small, could prove crucial to the investigation.
“We are particularly interested in speaking to anyone who may have seen a dark blue Volvo being driven around the area before, or after the incident.
“The car was found abandoned and on fire at the back of the Queens pub on Admiral Street shortly after midnight.
“I would urge any members of the public who have information which could help us to take positive action against those involved in gun crime and make our streets safer to pick up the phone and tell us what they know.”
If you have any information about this incident, or those involved in gun crime you can contact Merseyside Police’s social media desk via Twitter @MerPolCC or Facebook Merseyside Police CC.
You can also call 101 quoting incident reference 18400073268 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via their online form.