Slough Gunman Convicted of Attempted Murder in Van Shooting
A 21-year-old man from Slough has been found guilty of attempted murder after shooting a victim through a van window. Billy Merryweather, of Wentworth Avenue, was convicted today (29/9) at Reading Crown Court by a majority jury.
Fury on the Britwell Estate
On 26 March, a 26-year-old man was sitting in a van on Wentworth Avenue with a friend when Merryweather and Michael Omitiran, 23, approached. Merryweather fired a shot through the van window, hitting the victim in the shoulder before the pair fled.
The victim, known to the attackers, was rushed to hospital with a gunshot wound. Police launched a swift investigation, making arrests on 8 April. Both Merryweather and Omitiran were charged on 10 April.
Offenders Charged With Firearm Offences
- Billy Merryweather: Convicted of attempted murder and possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence
- Michael Omitiran: Found not guilty of attempted murder but guilty of possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence, and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life
Police Slam ‘Cowardly’ Attack
“This was an appalling and cowardly attack involving live firearms in a busy, residential area at just after 9pm on a Thursday evening,” said Detective Chief Inspector Andy Howard, Thames Valley Police Major Crime Unit.
“Billy Merryweather is a very dangerous young man prepared to commit serious violence right on his doorstep. The verdicts are a testament to our team’s dedication, even without the victim’s cooperation and despite interference by the offenders’ family and friends.”
“We will not tolerate serious violence. Thames Valley Police will use every resource to catch and prosecute those who use firearms illegally.”
Merryweather and Omitiran await sentencing at Reading Crown Court, date to be confirmed.
