Carolyn Cox, the mother of murdered teenager Ellis Cox, has warned that the "scum with guns" who killed her son will strike again unless people come forward with information. Ellis, 19, was shot dead two years ago today near Taskers on the Liver Industrial estate in north Liverpool. He was returning home with friends when a group on electric bikes approached them; Ellis tried to flee but was fatally shot in the back.
Background of the Killing
The shooting occurred amid a street-level drug dealing conflict between rival factions in north Liverpool. Ellis had no involvement in crime, but his associates, who were with him that night, were part of one gang targeted by another. Detective Chief Inspector Steve McGrath, leading the Merseyside Police investigation, revealed that the murder weapon had been used in two previous incidents and that a series of violent acts, including an aggravated burglary, were linked to the same feud.
Family's Pain and Determination
Speaking to the Liverpool Echo on the second anniversary, Ms Cox said: "It is never going to be the same, but all we can do is keep Ellis's face everywhere... We want to make sure people don't forget and they know that we need them to search their conscience and help us get justice. Why would you not want these people off the street? Because they will do it again." She described the killers as "just scum with guns" and questioned why anyone would protect them.
Impact on the Family
Ellis's aunt, Julie O'Toole, who has campaigned alongside her sister, said the past two years have felt like "Groundhog Day." She added: "Even if you forget for a split second that he isn't here you think what can we do next, because we can't let that go. We can't let them get away with it." Ms Cox remembered Ellis as a "gentle giant" who loved motocross and camping, and who had a "gentle soul." She choked back tears saying she misses "everything" about him, especially his laugh, big hugs, and "really bad singing in the shower."
Police Investigation and Reward
Detective Chief Inspector Steve McGrath said: "I'm still determined as I was two years ago to find the person or people responsible. I hope the recent arrests in connection with the case, with nine people in total questioned, shows how relentless we are." Crimestoppers has increased its reward to £20,000, and Ellis's family has doubled the reward for information leading to a conviction. Anyone with information can contact Merseyside Police or Crimestoppers.
