A ‘calculating’ and ‘extremely dangerous’ gunman who shot at two people sat in a parked car – almost killing them both – has been sentenced to two decades in prison following a trial at Manchester Crown Court.
Andrew Marcus Burke, 36, of HMP Manchester, approached two men, who were sitting in a car – a Seat Leon – on Radcliffe Road, Oldham, spoke to them briefly and then opened fire at about 10.20pm on Sunday June 29 last year.
One man, 19, was taken to hospital for injuries to his abdomen and the other, 20, for treatment to injuries to his buttocks – both have since been discharged and have made a full recovery.
Detective Chief Inspector Ian Crewe said: “We believe his attack was based on a previous dispute, but whatever his motivation there can be no excuse or justification for such a calculating, deliberate and violent attack on two men who were sat in a parked car.
“That such a deadly weapon was used in such close proximity to the two victims means it is a miracle they were not more seriously injured or even killed.”
Burke was convicted of two counts of section 18 assault and sentenced to 20 years imprisonment for each count, to run concurrently.
DCI Crewe said: “The Judge described Burke as an extremely dangerous man and I can only echo that sentiment.
“The streets are certainly a lot safer now that he is starting day one of a 20 year jail sentence.
“The length of sentence Burke has got – 20 years – reflects just how serious his actions were and again sends a powerful message that Greater Manchester Police and the courts will relentlessly pursue anyone who fires a gun and those that do can expect a very long stint behind bars.”
