A gang member has admitted to scouting the target moments before a nine-year-old girl was shot in the head during a horrifying drive-by attack at a Turkish restaurant in London.
The young victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was left fighting for her life after the shooting, which police believe was linked to an ongoing feud between rival criminal groups.
Cold-Blooded Confession
During police interrogation, the 22-year-old suspect confessed to his role in the incident, revealing he had been sent to identify potential targets shortly before the attack occurred.
"I was told to look for certain people," the suspect reportedly told detectives. "I didn't know they were going to shoot a kid."
Restaurant Turned Crime Scene
The shooting took place at a popular family-run Turkish restaurant in north London, where the victim had been enjoying a meal with relatives. Witnesses described hearing multiple gunshots before seeing a dark-colored vehicle speed away from the scene.
"It was chaos," one witness recalled. "People were screaming, tables were overturned. Then we saw the little girl on the floor covered in blood."
Ongoing Investigation
Metropolitan Police have confirmed they are treating the incident as attempted murder and are pursuing several lines of inquiry. Detectives believe the shooting may have been a case of mistaken identity, with the intended target being a known criminal who frequents the area.
"This was a reckless and cowardly act that could have had even more tragic consequences," said Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Reynolds, who is leading the investigation. "We are determined to bring all those responsible to justice."
Community Outrage
The attack has sparked outrage in the local community, with residents calling for tougher action against gang violence. A vigil was held outside the restaurant, where well-wishers left flowers and toys for the injured girl.
Local councillor Mark Thompson described the incident as "every parent's worst nightmare" and pledged to increase police patrols in the area.
The young victim remains in hospital where her condition is described as serious but stable. Doctors say she faces a long road to recovery.
