Getaway Driver Jailed for Life in Gangland Shooting That Injured Girl

A getaway driver, Javon Riley, has been sentenced to life in prison for his involvement in a botched gangland hit. The attack, stemming from a violent turf war between rival Turkish gangs, resulted in a nine-year-old girl being shot and critically injured. Riley, aged 33, must serve a minimum of 34 years for his role in the incident.

The young girl was enjoying an ice cream with her family at the Evin Restaurant in Hackney, east London, when she was struck in the head by one of six bullets fired from a passing motorbike. The attack was part of a bloody conflict between Turkish gangs in north London. The girl's parents described the attack as "brutal and inhumane," stating it had irrevocably changed their daughter's life. She spent three months in the hospital and will suffer lifelong physical and cognitive impairments due to the bullet still lodged in her brain.

Three other men at a nearby table were also injured in the drive-by shooting. Riley was found guilty of causing grievous harm with intent to the girl and attempting to murder rival gangsters. The intended target, however, escaped unharmed. The girl's mother expressed the devastation the attack has caused, highlighting the lasting physical, emotional, and mental scars. She emphasized the feeling of fear and uncertainty that now pervades their lives.

The judge noted the long-standing and violent rivalry between the Turkish criminal gangs, which had led to numerous murders and attempted murders. The men who were shot were associated with the Hackney Bombacilar gang, who were in conflict with the Tottenham Turks, with whom Riley was affiliated. The gunman, who remains at large, fled on a stolen motorbike. Prosecutors stated Riley played a crucial role before, during, and after the shooting.

Detectives discovered that Riley had conducted reconnaissance in the area, studying the traffic flow. On the night of the attack, he drove a stolen car past the restaurant to confirm the presence of the intended targets. After the shooting, he drove the gunman away in another stolen car, which was later found burnt out. The gun used in the attack has never been recovered. Riley admitted to his involvement but claimed he believed it was a robbery. He refused to identify the person who recruited him, citing fear for his life and family.

Riley had a history of convictions, including drug possession, driving offenses, and weapons charges. Police recordings revealed his connections to the Tottenham Turks. The gang feud began in 2009 and has resulted in numerous murders, shootings, and other violent acts. The investigation was led by Det Ch Insp Joanna Yorke, who stated that Riley would face the consequences of his actions.