Mistaken Identity: Innocent Man Shot in Legs

An innocent man was shot in the legs in a case of mistaken identity while walking to a chip shop in Croxteth. David Forbes was approached by Daniel Lawless, who, after being filmed showing off a shotgun in a pub car park, fired at Mr. Forbes on Cubert Road.

The victim, who had no connection to Lawless or any rival gangs, was struck by a single shotgun blast. He managed to drag himself home, suffering severe injuries to his legs. Mr. Forbes has since undergone multiple surgeries and skin grafts, with hundreds of shotgun pellets remaining embedded in his legs.

Lawless, who had a history of violence including a prior sentence for making threats, was apprehended. CCTV footage showed him retrieving and displaying the firearm before the attack and fleeing the scene. He was later seen returning to a property and departing in a vehicle, with the firearm never recovered.

At Liverpool Crown Court, Lawless was sentenced to 18.5 years imprisonment for wounding with intent and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. He will also serve an additional four years on license. The judge highlighted the severe, permanent injuries sustained by Mr. Forbes and the grave concern surrounding unlawful firearm possession.