Five Years On: Moss Side Families Still Crying Out for Justice
It’s been half a decade since the tragic double shooting rocked Moss Side. Two lives – Sheriff Tall, just 21, and Abayomi “Junior” Ajose, 36 – were cut brutally short. Yet, five years later, their families remain desperate for answers.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have launched a fresh appeal for witnesses, insisting that crucial information still lies hidden within the local community.
The Deadly Night in Moss Side
Shortly before 1am on Sunday, June 21, 2020, chaos erupted in a packed car park off Caythorpe Street. Around 300 to 400 people were gathered when gunshots rang out. Both Sheriff and Junior were fatally shot in the car park between Caythorpe Street and Broadfield Road.
Operation Tarnbrook: Hunting a Killer
Despite extensive forensic work, phone data seizures, and several arrests, the killer has never been charged. GMP’s Operation Tarnbrook remains active. Detectives believe someone at the scene still holds the key to cracking the case wide open.
New Witness Appeal – Recognise This Man?
Police are eager to identify a man seen at the scene wearing:
- A black Icon cap with a white logo
- A white Nike Air T-shirt with a small black chest logo
“Some were simply there to enjoy the night,” said Detective Chief Inspector Neil Higginson. “But we are positive that witnesses with information – even the smallest details – could be crucial.”
£50,000 Reward on Offer
GMP has announced a hefty £50,000 reward for information leading to a conviction. Officers believe the shooter may have come from outside Moss Side and has no ties to the community.
“This isn’t about being a ‘grass’. It’s about doing right by Sheriff and Junior’s families,” added DCI Higginson.
How to Help Bring Justice
If you know anything about the shooting, GMP urges you to come forward safely and anonymously:
- Submit evidence online via the Major Incident Public Portal
- Call GMP’s Major Incident Team on 0161 856 2035, quoting incident 221 of 21/06/20
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
- Use GMP’s LiveChat at www.gmp.police.uk
Community Safety and Protection Assured
GMP reassures witnesses that protections are in place, including:
- Anonymous testimony
- Screened court evidence
- Video statements for safety
“You won’t be forced to make a formal statement to start the conversation,” DCI Higginson confirmed.
Remembering Sheriff and Junior
Known warmly as “Cherry,” Sheriff was a young man full of promise. Junior, a devoted father, was deeply loved by his family. Their senseless deaths shattered Manchester and sparked fresh debate on gun crime and community safety.
The clock is ticking – justice for Sheriff and Junior can’t wait any longer. If you have any information, now’s the time to speak up.
