A ‘hitman’ has been charged with the shooting of a nine-year-old girl outside a restaurant in Hackney.
Javon Reily, 32, of Farnborough, Hampshire, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court today charged with four counts of attempted murder.
He was arrested on Friday 9 August following a vehicle stop in Chelsea Embankment and has been remanded in custody to appear at the Old Bailey on September 6.
The young girl was seriously injured as a result of the shooting on May 29 and remains in hospital in a stable condition.
Three other men who were also injured have since been released from hospital.
Police forensic officers at the scene of the shooting at Kingsland High Street, Hackney, east London
Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway, lead for policing in Hackney and Tower Hamlets, said: ‘Today’s charges are a significant development in what has been a painstaking and meticulous investigation. I would like to pay credit to those from our communities who came forward to speak to us.
‘Our thoughts remain with our young victim and her family as they continue to confront the devastating effects of gun crime.’
Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke who leads the investigation said: ‘My team continues to work around the clock in order to establish the facts of this incident.
‘This is very much still an ongoing investigation and we urge those who have information to come forward. We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who has information about the identity of an individual seen on a motorcycle in Kingsland High Street at the time of this offence.
‘We recognise that people may be apprehensive about providing details. They do not need to speak directly to the police. They can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
‘Any information, no matter how insignificant you feel it may be, could be vital.’
A 35-year-old woman who was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder and assisting an offender has been released on police bail.
The nine-year-old girl’s family has been informed of the charges and continue to be supported by specially trained officers.
This is a breaking story. More to follow.