Liam Hope and Rachel McNamara fired at the home on Alder Road shortly after midnight on Wednesday 4 June 2025.

On Friday 6 March they both appeared at Teesside Crown Court to be sentenced after being found guilty by a jury of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life following a trial.

Hope, aged 34, of Rowan Road in Stockton, was sentenced to 14 years with three years on extended licence and McNamara, aged 33, of Belle Vue Court in Norton, was sentenced to 13 years.

The court heard how a viable and working slam gun was discharged at the property while the occupants were inside.

Footage played to the court showed the pair both arriving on the same bike and cycling onto the driveway.

After travelling down a path at the side of the house to the side door, a bang can be heard from the discharging of the weapon, and they left the area shortly afterwards.

Later that day, both can then be seen coming in and out of a property on Bishopton Road with Hope holding a suspected firearm.

This was reported to police, and the pair were arrested later that day. A search of the property found the grey tracksuit worn by Hope at the time of the shooting and afterwards.

Following questioning, they were both charged and remanded in custody.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Suzy Garbutt, from Stockton CID, said: “Despite the discharging of the firearm at the property not being reported or the firearm recovered, we were able to link the report of Hope carrying a weapon that led to his arrest.

“A firearm is an incredibly dangerous weapon that instils fear, danger and harm to people living within our community.

“I want to thank all of the members of the community who assisted with the investigation and take this opportunity to encourage members of the public to report any incidents where they believe a gun has been fired or someone could be in possession of one, and to be assured that action will be taken.”

You can report it to Cleveland Police either by calling 101 or visiting our website. If in danger, always dial 999.

Information can be reported anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.