Gang Members Convicted for Terrifying Drive-By Shooting in Dudley
Three men have been found guilty of attempted murder following a drive-by shooting in Dudley that left a young woman with life-changing injuries. The shocking incident occurred last July on Priory Road, where a stolen grey Audi was used to fire multiple shots at a residential address.
Details of the Late-Night Attack
During the late hours of July 2, the stolen Audi was driven from a car park on Weavers Rise to Priory Road in Dudley. The vehicle passed the target address three times before five shots were fired. One bullet penetrated the front door, striking a woman in her 20s in the pelvis, resulting in severe, permanent injuries.
West Midlands Police conducted an extensive investigation, reviewing hours of CCTV footage to track the movements of the Audi and other vehicles involved in planning the shooting. The Audi had been stolen from an address in Wednesbury earlier that same day.
Arrests and Convictions
Following the investigation, police arrested several individuals:
- Kile Straker, 35, of Armstrong Drive, Wolverhampton
- Ethan Colbourne, 23, of Moat Road, Tipton
- Kieron Atkins, 27, of Rydding Lane, West Bromwich
These three men were convicted of attempted murder and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life after a four-week trial at Wolverhampton Crown Court.
Additionally, Stephen Simms, 24, Iranveer Gill, 28, and Kye Everitt, 25, were arrested in connection with the theft of the Audi. Gill was convicted of theft of a motor vehicle, while Straker, Colbourne, and Simms pleaded guilty to the same charge before the trial. Everitt pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing and received a 12-month prison sentence.
Police Investigation and Statements
Detective Sergeant Lucy Mooney from the Major Crime Unit emphasized the thoroughness of the investigation. "We discovered that the previous owner of the stolen Audi was Straker," she explained. "He kept the second key for the car and arranged for it to be stolen when needed. The group then used the vehicle in the planned shooting."
DS Mooney added, "This was a terrifying incident, and we hope the men spend many years behind bars." The investigation was part of Operation Target, West Midlands Police's initiative to combat serious and organized crime.
Sentencing and Aftermath
Straker, Colbourne, and Atkins are scheduled to be sentenced on March 26. The victim continues to recover from her life-changing injuries, highlighting the severe consequences of such violent crimes in the Black Country community.
This case underscores the dedication of law enforcement in pursuing justice for victims of gun violence and organized criminal activities in the region.
