Detectives investigating the shooting of a man through his letterbox this week believe the gang responsible meant to target someone else.
The 39-year-old man is being treated for “significant but not life-threatening” shotgun wounds in hospital after the shooting at his home in Elmore Road, Brighton, on Tuesday night.
Detective Chief Inspector Paul Rymarz, of the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team, is leading the investigation.
He said: “We believe that this was a case of mistaken identity and as a result, the victim was subjected to a frightening unprovoked attack at his home. Officers are supporting the victim and also the man who it is thought to be the intended target.
“We are still keen to hear from anyone who may have information about this incident or any suspicious vehicles, people or activity in the Elmore Road area late on Tuesday night.
“They asked to email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or phone 101, quoting Operation Kenton, or if they do not wish to leave their name, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
Neighbours say there is regularly trouble at the block of flats where the man was targeted.
In May last year, a 23-year-old man was stabbed in the head in the same road.