Innocents killed in gang war crossfire
Hundreds of mourners attended a memorial service for Joshua Isaacs on Sunday June 30.
Joshua, 22, was shot and killed in crossfire near his home in Frank Way, Ottery on Tuesday June 25.
His death was among a series of fatal gang shootings over the last week.
Jarring videos and images of violence in Ottery, Lotus River, Parkwood, Cafda and the broader Lavender Hill area also circulating on social media.
In a video on Facebook, a group of gun-wielding men fire at a car in Edward Avenue, Ottery, and in another video, armed men lurk around the corners of flats in Lotus River and fire several shots.
According to police, the shootings were between rival gangs.
Family spokesperson, Peter Lottering, said Joshua was on his way home from a nearby shop when he was struck by bullets.
Joshua’s family rushed him to Ottery Fire station for medical assistance but he succumbed to his injuries. Mr Lottering said the incident, which happened in the early hours, sent shock waves through the community because Joshua, who had just celebrated his birthday the Saturday before, was not a gangster.
A resident, who spoke anonymously, said the community is being held hostage by daily shootings.
“We are terrified because it could be any of our children who might just go to the shop but then be killed by a stray bullet. We are being held hostage in our homes and there doesn’t seem to be any relief for us because nothing is being done to help us.”
In a separate incident in St Montague, Liam May, 22, and Gino Titus, 23, were shot while waiting for a gatsby at a take-away in St Bernard Crescent on Friday June 28. Both died on the scene.
Community leader Aysha Davids said the recent tragic events on the two innocent men has left the community reeling.
“We are very sad at the passing of these two young men who had nothing to do with gangsterism. Innocent people are losing their lives. We as a community are heartbroken and we call for peace in our community,” said Ms Davids.
Grassy Park police confirmed the shootings in Ottery, Lotus River and Parkwood and said they are under investigation.
Acting station commander Colonel King said the status in the area is volatile and communities are on edge as shooting occurs at any time, day or night.
He said authorities were doing their utmost to bring calmness to the community.
“We can’t do this alone, we need the community to come forward with information and we urged communities not to attack members carrying out their duties during this time.”
