A man who fired a handgun at another man during a violent confrontation in Byker, Newcastle, has been jailed for 12 years, Northumbria Police confirmed.
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Stephen Thompson, 50, opened fire during a dispute on Headlam Green on 16 October 2024, leaving his victim injured but alive. The victim was treated in hospital and later discharged.
Arrest and Charges
Thompson was arrested soon after the shooting, with police discovering he was in possession of:
- A black handgun
- A bladed weapon
- A corrosive substance
He was charged with attempted murder, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, possession of an offensive weapon, and grievous bodily harm with intent. He denied attempted murder but admitted to the lesser offence, which the Crown accepted.
Newcastle Crown Court Verdict
At Newcastle Crown Court on Friday, the judge sentenced Thompson to 12 years in custody, taking into account the serious danger posed by firearm use in a public place.
