Slough Gunman Convicted of Attempted Murder After Shooting Through Van Window
A 21-year-old man has been found guilty of attempted murder for firing a shot through the window of a van in Slough. Billy Merryweather, from Wentworth Avenue, was convicted today (29/9) at Reading Crown Court by a majority jury.
Gunfire in Quiet Residential Area
On 26 March, the victim, a 26-year-old man, was sitting inside a van on Wentworth Avenue in the Britwell Estate with a friend when Merryweather and Michael Omitiran, 23, approached the vehicle. Merryweather fired a bullet through the van window, hitting the victim in the shoulder before the pair fled.
The victim, known to the offenders, was rushed to hospital with a gunshot wound. Police launched a swift investigation, arresting Merryweather and Omitiran on 8 April and charging them two days later.
Other Charges and Verdicts
- Billy Merryweather was also found guilty of possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence.
- Michael Omitiran was acquitted of attempted murder but convicted on two counts related to firearm possession, including possession with intent to endanger life.
Police Condemn ‘Cowardly Attack’
“This was an appalling and cowardly attack involving live firearms in a busy, residential area at just after 9pm on a Thursday evening,” said Detective Chief Inspector Andy Howard of Thames Valley Police.
“Billy Merryweather is a very dangerous young man prepared to commit serious violence right on his doorstep. Despite attempts by family and friends to obstruct the inquiry, the investigation and prosecution team presented a strong case, even without the victim’s cooperation.”
“Thames Valley Police will never tolerate serious violence and will use all resources to bring offenders to justice.”
Merryweather and Omitiran will be sentenced at Reading Crown Court on a date yet to be announced.
