Teen jailed for life after 15-year-old girl shot in neck in Liverpool gang attack
Rio Jones sentenced over shocking Toxteth shooting
A 19-year-old teenage gunman has been locked up for life after a chilling gang-related shooting left a 15-year-old girl seriously wounded in Liverpool. Rio Jones, from Jermyn Street, Toxteth, blasted a stray bullet that hit the girl’s neck while he was firing at a rival during a March 2023 bike chase on Upper Warwick Street.
Innocent bystander caught in gang crossfire
The terrified teen was waiting at a bus stop when the bullet struck her. She was rushed to hospital in critical condition but has since been released and is recovering at home. Another man, 20, was also hurt with a gunshot wound to the hand. The horrific attack sent shockwaves through the community.
Judge slams ‘planned and determined’ gang hit
At Liverpool Crown Court today, Rio Jones was found guilty of attempted murder, wounding with intent, and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. He received a life sentence with a minimum term of 16-and-a-half years for attempted murder. Concurrent sentences of nine years for wounding and 12 years for firearm possession were also handed down, along with activation of a previous suspended sentence.
“This was a truly shocking and reckless incident in which an innocent child was caught up in a gang dispute,” Judge Andrew Menary KC told the court. “This shooting was a planned and determined effort to kill a rival. The sentence must have a deterrent element.”
Police vow crack down on Merseyside gun crime
Detective Superintendent Rachel Wilson praised officers for their swift work: “Thanks to diligent police work, we arrested and charged Jones within days. Today he’s behind bars to reflect on the consequences of his brazen actions.”
She added: “We know the devastating impact gun crime has on victims, families and communities. I hope this sentence brings comfort and helps the young victim on her long road to recovery.”
Police warned they will continue to target anyone carrying weapons in Merseyside. Anyone with information about gun use or storage is urged to contact Merseyside Police or call the anonymous hotline on 0800 555 111.
