A 12-year-old boy is being questioned by police after an eight-year-old was shot five times by a BB gun.
The attack happened on Saturday at 9.05pm when the younger boy, from Hurst Farm in Matlock, was playing on the swings at Helicopter Park, off Hurst Rise.
The 12-year-old, from Matlock, allegedly held a BB gun about a foot away from the youngster b
efore firing five shots at his face, body and legs. He suffered minor injuries.
The police are now questioning the 12-year-old and appealing for witnesses.
Following the attack police have appealed to parents not allow children to play with guns.
And they warn carrying a BB gun in public could lead to six months imprisonment.
A police spokesperson said: "These guns can be purchased legally but it is an offence to carry an imitation firearm in a public place without permission, whether or not it is capable of discharging a shot or a bullet. BB guns can also inflict painful injuries.
"Carrying an air weapon in public, loaded or not, is also an offence.
"BB and imitation guns look like real firearms, and this means that if someone is seen carrying one in public they could find themselves facing an armed police officer."
Maria Slack, from Hurst Farm Community Association who runs the estate's youth club, said she was shocked to hear about the incident.
She added: "This is very unusual. I have quite a lot to do with children and never hear of anything like that which would cause serious concern.
"I hope this is a one off and it does not happen again."
Mrs Slack said Hurst Farm did not have a problems with youth culture.
She added: "Other areas have lots of gang problems but Hurst Farm still has very low key nuisance problems.
"This is quite extreme and unusual behaviour."
Anyone with information should call police on 0845 123 3333.
