Liverpool Showcase cinema shooter admits wielding AK47-style assault rifle

02 February 2024 , 15:35

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Leslie Garrett admitted the charges (Image: Liverpool Echo)

A 49-year-old man has admitted firing multiple shots outside the Showcase Cinema and trying to rob a newsagents last month.

Leslie Garrett entered Sangha's off licence in the city and demanded cash before firing a single shot through the Perspex sheet in front of the counter, at around 8pm on Wednesday, January 3.

He then travelled to the Showcase Cinema on Stonedale retail park and threatened two members of staff before leaving and firing multiple shots into the air. He then made his way to a house on Malpas Road, Croxteth, where he once again fired multiple shots into the air. Luckily no-one was injured.

Merseyside Police subsequently arrested 49-year-old Mr Garrett, taking him in for questioning. CCTV later released by the force showed the gunman in a green jacket and flip flops in the Sangha newsagents moments before the cinema shooting.

The chilling footage shows him point what appears to be a rifle at a member of staff inside the shop, before turning it to one side and firing a shot, then leaving. The gunman then travelled to the cinema about a mile and a half from the off-licence, entering the foyer at around 8.50pm before pointing the gun at staff and firing shots.

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Police after gun was fired (Liverpool Echo)

Today, February 2, Garrett appeared before Liverpool Crown Court for a plea and trial preparation hearing. He spoke to confirm his name and entered a plea for the charges he faced. Appearing before the crown court via video link, he pleaded guilty to all eight counts of offences, including possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, two counts of possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence; attempted robbery and possession of ammunition without a certificate.

Judge Trevor-Jones confirmed Garrett will receive the "appropriate credit" for his guilty pleas" and the case was adjourned for sentence on April 5. He will remain in custody. A spokeswoman for Merseyside Police said: “A Liverpool man has today pleaded guilty to firearms offences following incidents in Croxteth and Norris Green on Wednesday 3rd January.

“Leslie Garrett, 49, from Ternhall Road, Fazakerley, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, two counts of possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, attempt robbery and possession of ammunition without a certificate. He was remanded into custody to appear at Liverpool Crown Court for sentencing on Friday 5th April.”

Kelly-Ann Mills