Man Jailed for Life After Daylight Leytonstone Shooting
A 29-year-old thug has been locked up for at least 12 years for shooting a man in broad daylight in Leytonstone. Reece Burton, homeless and dangerous, was found guilty of attempted murder and firearm possession at the Old Bailey last December.
Ambush in Broad Daylight
On the morning of June 17, 2019, Burton armed himself with a loaded gun and waited on Birch Road. When his 28-year-old victim left his home around 11:30am, Burton fired at least two shots. One bullet struck the man’s neck, missing vital arteries by inches. The victim staggered home, fearing for his life, while Burton made a getaway on a bicycle.
Hunt and Capture
Specialist Crime detectives swiftly launched an investigation. Burton was arrested just four days later on June 21. Despite the victim’s ordeal, Burton showed no remorse and the gun has never been recovered.
Judge Calls Burton ‘Dangerous’
At sentencing on Monday, Burton was handed a life sentence with a minimum term of 12 years. He also received eight years for firearm possession, to run concurrently. The judge branded him a “dangerous offender” steeped in criminal culture.
“This was a pre-planned, targeted attack born from gang tensions,” said Detective Inspector Matthew Webb. “Burton intended to kill the victim. It’s pure luck he survived.”
“Thanks to the brave bystanders who helped the victim, risking their own safety.”
The police urge anyone with information about crimes or weapons to come forward. Burton’s chilling daylight shooting shows just how bold criminals have become.
