Two men and a teenage boy have been charged with attempted murder following a shooting incident in Braintree, Essex, that left three people injured. The arrests were made after police responded to reports of a "targeted attack" in the town center around 10 p.m. on Monday, August 31.
Two teenagers sustained serious injuries to their faces and upper bodies, while a third person also suffered injuries. Police have stated that the injuries, while serious, are not life-threatening. Chief Superintendent Rob Kirby described the incident as not random but directed from one specific group towards another.
Destiny Ema, 23, Kayden Brown, 18, and a 17-year-old boy have been charged with attempted murder. They appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court. A 16-year-old boy, previously arrested in connection with the incident, has been released on police bail until November 30.
Ema faces additional charges from separate investigations, including attempted grievous bodily harm with intent, four firearm offenses, harassment, and malicious communications.
Detective Inspector Frazer Low indicated that the arrests followed intensive police work and that no one else is being sought in connection with the shooting. While the investigation initially linked the incident to a dispute connected to criminal drug activity, authorities have confirmed that none of the injured parties were involved in such offenses. Police have thanked the community for their patience and support, acknowledging the concern an incident of this nature in a public location can cause. They reiterated their commitment to community safety and expressed gratitude for public assistance.
A policeman stands in front of a cordon in Braintree town centre following the shooting.