Brothers jailed for life after shooting teenager in Wirral

They will serve a minimum term of 18 years and eight months after pleading guilty to attempted murder

James Byrne (left) and Curtis Byrne (right) have been jailed for life
Author: Harry BoothPublished 6th Sep 2024
Last updated 6th Sep 2024

Two brothers have been jailed for life after shooting a teenager at a bus stop in Liverpool.

A 17-year-old boy was standing at a bus stop on Fender Way in Birkenhead on Wednesday 11 May 2022 when a group of males on electric bikes opened fire six times, hitting him once in the leg.

He went to Arrowe Park Hospital for treatment.

Twin brothers James Byrne and Curtis Byrne, 23, and originally from the Wirral area, were arrested and charge with attempted murder and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life.

They were found guilty of both offences after a trial - and will serve at least 18 years and eight months behind bars after appearing at Liverpool Crown Court today for sentencing.

Detective Inspector John Mullen, from Merseyside Police's Firearms Investigation Team, said:

"This has been a lengthy and complex investigation but thanks to the hard work of the firearm investigation team these brothers will now spend a considerable number of years behind bars because of their actions.

"An indiscriminate and reckless use of a gun"

"This was an indiscriminate and reckless use of a gun which could have had even more serious or even fatal consequences and it is right they should be behind bars where they can no longer cause fear or harm in the community.

"I hope these sentences show that the possession and use of firearms is taken exceptionally seriously, and we will take any necessary action to put those responsible before the courts.

"I hope the community sees results like this as evidence of the ongoing positive work Merseyside Police continues to do to prevent shootings, recover firearms and bring offenders to justice.

"We will continue to act on all information provided on gun crime to remove weapons and those who use them from the community and I would ask anyone who has any information about gun crime to please come forward and tell what you know, either directly or anonymously via Crimestoppers and let us do the rest."

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