Police in Leven are hunting an airgun-wielding thug who shot a young boy in the head.
Six-year-old Xander Fenn could be left scarred by the unprovoked attack, which took place as he played in the garden of his McIntosh Crescent home.
The Mountfleurie Primary School pupil initially thought he had been hit by a ball but after hearing rifle shots nearby his parents, Elizabeth and Robert, quickly established that the bump on his head was the result of something more sinister.
“We had heard some noises prior to that but we didn’t know what it was,” said Elizabeth, 43.
“Xander was playing on a decking area in the garden and came running in and crying saying that he had been hit by a ball.
“He said that it had come over the fence and that somebody had thrown it in.
“We then heard a cracking noise and that was when we realised what it was.”
A large bump and bruise quickly formed on the youngster’s head following the drama last Sunday evening and police have launched an investigation.
It is just the latest in a spate of airgun incidents in the area recently, with claims that numerous pets have also been targeted.
Xander’s mother believes that the perpetrators may have been targeting two dogs that were in the garden with her son at the time.
Despite his ordeal, the Primary Two pupil is said to have been proudly showing off his wound to others in the playground, but Mrs Fenn said that the incident may leave a permanent mark on her son.
“He has calmed down a lot and has now been out a couple of times,” she added.
“There is still a little mark on his head but whether or not it will leave a scar we still have to wait and find out.”
Meanwhile, Police Scotland has appealed for assistance in tracing those responsible.
A spokeswoman said: “Police inquiries into this incident are ongoing and anyone who has any information that might assist with the investigation is asked to call the non-emergency number 101 or, alternatively the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”