In a heart-wrenching twist of fate, a nine-year-old girl became the innocent victim of a brutal gang feud in Hackney. She was sitting with her family at Evin Restaurant on Kingsland High Street when a man on a motorbike fired six bullets, striking her in the head. Tragically, the bullet remains lodged in her brain, leaving the once-vibrant child facing lifelong challenges and robbing her loved ones of the future they had imagined together.
This horrific incident was part of a long-standing conflict between rival Turkish gangs in north London. Three other men at a nearby table were also injured during the attack, but the innocent girl bore the brunt of the violence.
Javon Riley, 33, from Tottenham, has been found guilty of causing grievous harm with intent to the girl and attempting to murder the three men. While the gunman remains at large, the court heard how Riley played a crucial role in the shooting, from conducting reconnaissance to driving the gunman away.
Riley’s refusal to name those who orchestrated the attack has left justice incomplete. Yet, his conviction provides some solace to the girl’s family as they grapple with the emotional and physical toll of this senseless act. Detective Inspector Ben Dalloway underscored the impact of Riley’s actions on the little girl’s life and issued a call for anyone with information to come forward to ensure all responsible are held accountable.
Scotland Yard is offering up to £15,000 for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the shooter. In the face of fear and uncertainty, the community’s voice is crucial in bringing justice and some measure of peace to this shattered family. They urge anyone with details to step forward and help bring closure to this heart-breaking case.