A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a woman was shot in Blackbird Leys this morning.

Thames Valley Police said the woman, in her 40s, is in a stable condition.

They were caled to a report of a firearms incident in Crowberry Road at 5.07am.

The woman was taken to the John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford.

South Central Ambulance spokesman James Keating-Wilkes said she was “concious and breathing”.

No further details of her injuries have been made available.

A 21-year-old man from Oxford has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, the force said.

Two Oxford men aged 26 and 40 were arrested on suspicion of affray. All are in custody.

Det Insp John Turner, leading the investigation, said: “I would like to reassure the local community that incidents such as these are extremely rare.

“Police officers and PCSOs will be undertaking extra patrols in the area to provide a reassurance to the community of Blackbird Leys.

“I would urge anyone with any information about the incident to contact the police immediately.”

A Leys resident, who did not want to be named, said: “It was a horrible shock and I feel really scared to tell you the truth.

“ I know Blackbird Leys doesn’t have the best reputation, but people hardly ever get shot.

“That’s something that happens in London or Manchester.”

Andrew Roberts, 35 , of Pegasus Road, Blackbird Leys, said: “I couldn’t believe it when I heard. I hope the poor woman is okay."

Contact DI Turner on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.