A man has been arrested after shots were fired near Walton prison.
Police received a report at around 9.15pm on Friday that gun shots had been fired in Hornby Road, close to HMP Liverpool.
Officers attended the scene and found damage to a grey Renault Megane car consistent with a firearm discharge.
There have been no reports of anyone injured during the incident.
It is believed three to four offenders ran from the scene on foot in the direction of Hornby Close before getting into a black Audi car before driving away.
Merseyside Police have number of bullet casings have been recovered from the scene and taken for forensic examination.
A 28-year-old man from Walton was later arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit grievous bodily harm and will be interviewed at a police station.
High visibility patrols will be stepped up in the area and CCTV opportunities in the area will be explored.
Hornby Road is closed in both directions and motorists are advised to avoid the area.
Chief Inspector Mark Morgan said: “An investigation into the full circumstances of the incident is ongoing but at this stage it is believed to have been targeted.
“I would appeal to anyone who may have seen anyone acting suspiciously in the area around Hornby Road, close to HMP Liverpool, shortly before or after the incident to contact us.
“Any information they have could be vital. It is vital that anyone with information comes forward to help these enquiries.
“I promise we will take robust action and put these people before the courts and in to the prisons.”
Anyone that witnessed the incident or saw anything suspicious that could help investigate the incident is urged to contact the gun crime hotline on 0800 230 0600 or leave information anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.