A 17-year-old girl who was shot dead in Tottenham during a gang “ride-out” may not have been the intended target, the Old Bailey has heard.
Victim Identified as Tanesha Melbourne-Blake
Tanesha Melbourne-Blake was standing with friends on Chalgrove Road in Tottenham on Easter Monday in 2018 when a car pulled up, and shots were fired. Tanesha was hit in the chest and collapsed on the street, telling her friend, “Jace, I’ve been shot.” Despite the efforts of neighbors and emergency services, she died at the scene from internal injuries caused by the gunshot.
Gang Rivalry and Retaliation
The court heard that the shooting was the result of a “long-standing enmity” between rival gangs from Wood Green and Northumberland Park. Prosecutor Jocelyn Ledward KC stated that the attack was carried out as retaliation following a social media humiliation the night before.
According to the prosecution, the violence stemmed from a violent assault on Marcus La Croix, 37, known as “Bobby Slater,” by members linked to the Northumberland Park gang “Sin Squad.” The attack, which took place in the early hours of April 1, was filmed and widely circulated on social media, causing public embarrassment for La Croix.
The court was told that La Croix, along with Michael Clarke, 35, known as “Da Gaffa,” from Luton, planned the ride-out as an act of revenge. The intention was to inflict death or serious injury using a self-loading pistol. However, Tanesha may not have been the intended target, and her death is considered a tragic consequence of the ongoing gang conflict.
Floral Tributes and Community Grief
In the days following the shooting, floral tributes were laid at the scene, with many in the community expressing their sorrow and disbelief. Friends and family described Tanesha as a kind and loving young woman whose life was taken too soon.
Charges and Trial
La Croix and Clarke both face charges of murder and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. Both men have pleaded not guilty. The trial at the Old Bailey continues, with jurors shown CCTV footage of the earlier assault on La Croix and his girlfriend.
Prosecution Statement
Ms. Ledward told the jury:
“The ride-out was intended to result in death or serious injury through the use of a self-loading pistol. Although Tanesha may not have been the intended target, the defendants acted with the clear intention to harm.”
Community Impact
The death of Tanesha Melbourne-Blake has left a lasting impact on the Tottenham community, with many calling for stronger efforts to address gang violence and protect young lives.
The trial continues at the Old Bailey, with further evidence expected to be presented in the coming days.
