A PASSENGER has been injured after a car was shot at on the A29.

A number of drivers have reported their vehicles having been hit and damaged by ball bearings or pellets in Adversane, near Billingshurst.

Armed police and a police helicopter attended the scene in an attempt to search for a suspect after the first report on Sunday, January 9.

Sergeant Sarah McManamon, of Sussex Police, said: “We believe the vehicles could have been shot at by someone using a catapult or BB gun.

“This is a criminal act and could have caused a serious injury or even a fatal collision."

The first of several incidents happened in the northbound lane of the A29, near Stane Street, just before 7.30am on Sunday.

The car window was smashed and one of the passengers suffered minor injuries, according to police.

Police also received two similar reports from drivers whose vehicles had also been struck and damaged by ball bearings or pellets as they drove near Stane Street shortly after.

Police are now appealing for witnesses.

"We are investigating and would like to hear from anyone who saw this happen or has any dashcam, mobile phone or CCTV footage of the incidents to come forward,” Sergeant McManamon said.

"We will be stepping up patrols in the area and if anyone has any concerns, please speak to one of our officers."

Anyone with information is urged to contact police online or ring 101, quoting serial 217 of 08/01.

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously.