Meshaq Berryman, a 22-year-old gang member, received a life sentence for shooting three teens at a wake in Birmingham, highlighting ongoing gang violence in the area.
Birmingham: A drug dealer shot three people at a wake. This happened during a gang feud between two notorious gangs. The shooter, Meshaq Berryman, was sentenced to life in prison.
Berryman, 22, fired from a stolen car at St Mary’s Church Hall. The shooting occurred on February 24, 2023, shortly after 6 PM. The wake was for Akeem Bailey, a 17-year-old who had been stabbed earlier.
He hit three teenagers, two of whom were linked to a rival gang called Armed Response. Berryman was found guilty of three counts of attempted murder and admitted to drug possession.
During sentencing, Judge Melbourne Inman noted the violence was part of an ongoing gang war. He emphasized that the victim was innocent and not involved in any gang activities.
Berryman had left his home to get into a stolen Nissan. He wore gloves, which later tested positive for gun residue. Around 100 people were at the wake when he opened fire.
One victim, a 19-year-old, was shot in the chest and needed surgery. Another 19-year-old was hit in the foot, and an 18-year-old was shot in the shin. The latter still struggles to walk after five months of recovery.
A 14-year-old girl was injured in the chaos as people fled the scene. Her mother said the incident changed their lives forever, making her daughter anxious in crowds.
Police found drugs and weapons at Berryman’s home after the shooting. He had a history of drug dealing and had received a suspended sentence just before the incident.
His defense attorney argued that Berryman had a difficult upbringing, which contributed to his actions. However, the judge stated he showed no remorse and posed a danger to the public.
