Police were called to Teynham Road in Shirecliffe at 7.13pm last night following reports that a teenager had been shot.
The boy remains in a stable condition in hospital.
Police are currently appealing for witnesses as their investigation continues to identify those responsible as the officers continue with enquiries.
They are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have been in the area around the time of the incident, or who were driving and may have dashcam footage.
Detective Inspector Chris Ronayne said: “I know incidents like this are a great cause of concern, especially given the age of the boy involved.
“Officers will remain in the area today as they continue their work. If you have any information which could help the investigation please speak to them.
You can pass information to police via our online live chat, our online portal or by calling 101. Please quote incident number 886 of 8 March when you get in touch.
You can access our online portal here: www.southyorks.police.uk/contact-us/report-something/ and dash-cam footage can be emailed to enquiries@southyorks.pnn.police.uk.