Life Behind Bars for Christmas Eve Gun Murder
A 23-year-old man has been handed a life sentence, with a minimum of 48 years behind bars, for the brutal murder of Elle Edwards in Wirral last Christmas Eve.
Connor Chapman, from Houghton Road, Woodchurch, opened fire just before midnight outside a Wallasey Village pub using a Skorpion sub-machine gun. The attack killed 26-year-old Elle and left five other men injured.
Guilty Verdict After 16-Day Liverpool Trial
Following a 16-day trial at Liverpool Crown Court, Chapman was found guilty of murder, attempted murder, wounding with intent, and possession of a firearm and ammunition with intent to endanger life. He also pleaded guilty to handling stolen goods linked to a Mercedes used in the shooting.
Chapman received multiple sentences running concurrently: 22 years for murder and attempted murders, seven years for wounding, 18 months for assault, 15 years for firearm possession, and three years for handling stolen property. The total jail time amounts to a minimum of 48 years.
Chapman’s accomplice, 20-year-old Thomas Waring of Barnston, was found guilty of possession of a prohibited weapon and assisting an offender. Waring was sentenced to nine years in prison.
Judge Condemns “Wicked” Revenge Attack
“What you did Connor Chapman was as wicked as it was shocking,” said High Court Judge Justice Goose. “You murdered Elle, bringing an end to her life, and caused serious injury to others. It was a carefully planned gang revenge attack with no thought for anyone else.”
Police and Prosecutors Praise Justice Served
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Superintendent Paul Grounds said: “Chapman’s cowardly attack, firing into a crowd on a night out, shows his complete contempt for life. Elle was a young woman with her whole life ahead of her.”
He added: “Chapman will now spend a considerable part of his life behind bars. His co-accused Waring has also been brought to justice. We hope this will deter others from using guns.”
Adam Clarke, Specialist Prosecutor for CPS Mersey-Cheshire, offered condolences to Elle’s family and friends. “Nothing can make up for their loss, but the convictions bring some comfort. This is another tragedy caused by guns on our streets, with innocent people paying the price.”
Call for Public Help
Anyone with information on gun use or storage is urged to contact Merseyside Police Confidential or Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.
