Three freshers from Durham University have been hit with air-rifle pellets during a Freshers’ Week boat party.

The incident, which occurred last Thursday (September 29), saw the three freshers, who are from St John’s College, receive slight injuries after attending the popular event.

According to Durham Police, one student suffered minor injuries to her legs from the shots, ending the night in A&E, whilst the other two students were unharmed.

The incident is thought to have taken place as the Prince Bishop river cruise boat turned by Prebends Bridge on the River Wear, and police were contacted just after 8.45pm.

Read more: York: Police cordon in place after an incident outside Ramsdens

It is not thought to be a targeted attack, according to officers investigating the incident.

After a thorough search of the area, police were unable to find any official suspects, but are keen to talk to three men described as being between 17-18 who were captured on CCTV walking along the river by the Radisson Blu hotel around the time of the incident.

One of the men is recorded in a black hoodie, whilst another is in camouflage clothing.

There is an investigation into the incident taking place led by Durham Neighbourhood Police Team, using CCTV footage from around Durham City Centre to find evidence.

In a statement, a spokesperson for Durham Police said: “This was obviously a very frightening experience for a group of young people having what should have been an enjoyable night out and it is fortunate someone wasn’t more seriously injured.

“This appears to be a one-off incident and at present, there is nothing to indicate that it was a targeted attack.

“We are carrying out a full investigation to identify those responsible and would appeal for anyone with information, particularly on the identity of the three men in the area at the time, to call us”.

Anyone with any information on the incident is asked to call Durham Neighbourhood Police Team on 101, quoting incident number 424 of September 29.

Read next:

If you want to read more great stories, why not subscribe to your Northern Echo for as little as £1.25 a week. Click here