Liam Hope and Rachel McNamara are behind bars after terrorising a Stockton neighbourhood with a gunshot fired at a home just after midnight on Wednesday, 4 June 2025.
The dangerous duo arrived on the same bike, cycled straight onto the driveway of a property on Alder Road, and let off a live slam gun while people were inside. CCTV caught them sneaking down a side path to the back door moments before the shot rang out. They then sped off fast.
Quick Arrest After Police Hunt
Later that day, Hope and McNamara were spotted near a Bishopton Road property. Hope was carrying what looked like a firearm. Police were called, swooped in, and arrested them both. Officers also found the exact grey tracksuit Hope wore during the shooting.
Harsh Sentences Delivered at Teesside Crown Court
Justice came swiftly and hard on Friday, 6 March. Hope, 34, of Rowan Road, Stockton, was jailed for 14 years with an extra three years on an extended licence. McNamara, 33, from Belle Vue Court, Norton, got 13 years behind bars.
Police Praise the Public and Demand Vigilance
Detective Constable Suzy Garbutt of Stockton CID said: “Despite no reports of the firearm being discharged or recovered, linking Hope to weapon possession led to his arrest.”
“A firearm is a deadly weapon that spreads fear and harm in our communities.”
