Drive-By Shooting at Camden Funeral Leaves Four Women and Two Children Injured
Emergency services rushed to Phoenix Road, Camden, just outside Euston Station, at 1.30pm on Saturday, January 14, after reports of a drive-by shooting. Four women, aged 21, 41, 48, and 54, along with two children aged seven and twelve, were taken to a central London hospital.
The 48-year-old woman suffered potentially fatal injuries. The seven-year-old girl remains in critical condition.
Gunman Targets Funeral Gathering
The shooting happened during a memorial service at St Aloysius Church in Camden. Mourners were paying respects to Fresia Calderon, 50, and her daughter Sara Sanchez, 20, who tragically died within 25 days of each other.
An eyewitness revealed the gunman was after a man attending the service, hinting at a revenge attack. “According to witnesses, the intended target of the shooting was a man who attended the service,” said one funeralgoer.
Simon, 38, who lives next door to the church, added, “I heard screaming, which isn’t unusual around here. When I came out, I saw police and ambulances. It was probably revenge – there’s lots of crime and drug abuse getting worse. On this estate, gangs hang out on every corner.”
Shots Fired from Moving Vehicle
Preliminary investigations suggest shots were fired from a passing car that sped away after the attack.
Another witness described the chaos: “I didn’t see the car coming but heard a loud bang. A woman fell, and people panicked trying to leave the church. My son saw a black car approach. There was screaming and rushing to safety with children in arms.”
The community suspects CCTV footage will help police track down the vehicle, as the area is notorious for traffic jams.
Police Launch Urgent Hunt for Shooter
So far, no arrests have been made. The Met Police have committed local officers and specialist detectives to the investigation.
“We will do everything possible to identify and bring to justice those responsible,” said Superintendent Ed Wells. “Residents will see increased police presence across the weekend and coming days.”
If you witnessed the shooting or have any information, contact police on 101 quoting reference 3357/14JAN.
Anonymous tips can be made to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
