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Monday 23/02/2026

Nine-Year-Old Girl Injured in London Gang-Related Shooting

Scene of gang-related shooting at a Turkish restaurant in Dalston
Sofia RomanoSofia Romano

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • A nine-year-old girl was shot in the head during a drive-by shooting at Evin restaurant in Dalston, east London, on 29 May 2024.
  • The shooting was allegedly a planned assassination targeting rival gang members, involving the Tottenham Turks and Hackney Turks.
  • Javon Riley, 33, is on trial at the Old Bailey, charged with attempted murder and grievous bodily harm with intent.
  • The gunman, who remains at large, fired six shots, injuring three men and the young girl, who faces lifelong physical and cognitive challenges.
  • Prosecutors allege Riley played a key role in planning and executing the attack, despite not firing the shots himself.

A nine-year-old girl was tragically caught in the crossfire of a gang-related shooting at a Turkish restaurant in Dalston, east London, on 29 May 2024. The incident, described in court as a "planned assassination," highlights the ongoing violence between rival gangs in the city.

The Incident

The young girl was dining with her family at Evin restaurant when a gunman on a Ducati Monster motorbike opened fire, targeting a group seated outside. The gunman, who remains unidentified, fired six shots in rapid succession, injuring three men and striking the girl in the head. The bullet lodged in her brain, leading to severe injuries that will result in lifelong physical and cognitive difficulties.

The Court Case

Javon Riley, 33, is currently on trial at the Old Bailey, facing charges of attempted murder and causing grievous bodily harm with intent. Prosecutor James Mulholland KC presented the case, asserting that the shooting was a meticulously planned attack orchestrated by Riley and others. The attack is believed to be part of a longstanding feud between two rival gangs, the Tottenham Turks and the Hackney Turks, also known as the Bombacilars.

The Rivalry

The rivalry between these gangs has been marked by extreme violence over the past decade. The prosecution claims that the shooting was intended to eliminate members of the Hackney Turks, who were seated outside the restaurant. Despite not being a member of the Tottenham Turks, Riley is alleged to have played a crucial role in the planning and execution of the attack.

Impact on Victims

While the three men injured in the shooting have made reasonable recoveries, the impact on the young girl has been profound. She underwent several intensive operations at Great Ormond Street Hospital, including the insertion of a titanium plate in her skull. Despite a relatively good recovery, her life will be permanently affected by the injuries sustained.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

As the trial continues, the focus remains on whether the prosecution can convincingly link Riley to the planning and execution of the attack. If found guilty, Riley could face significant prison time, potentially disrupting the operations of the Tottenham Turks. The case also underscores the persistent issue of gang violence in London, prompting calls for increased law enforcement efforts and community interventions to prevent further tragedies. The outcome of this trial may influence future legal strategies in tackling gang-related crimes in the city.