Trio jailed for 44 years after shooting van in Crays Hill
They fired multiple gunshots at a van, narrowly missing the driver
Last updated 2nd Jul 2026
Three men involved in a shooting incident in Crays Hill have been jailed for a total of 44 years following an extensive investigation by specialist officers.
Johnny Smith, 20, Donny Archer, 27, and Nelson Buckland, 21, were convicted on 12th March at Chelmsford Crown Court after being found guilty of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent, possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life, and burglary.
Smith, from Oak Road, Crays Hill, Buckland, from Risebridge Chase, Romford, and Archer, from Kelvedon Road, Tiptree, were linked to the shooting incident in Gardners Lane North, which occurred in the early hours of 18th April last year.
During the attack, the trio fired multiple gunshots at a van, narrowly missing the driver and causing significant damage to the vehicle.
A feud between two groups motivated their actions, and officers were able to trace their movements before and after the offence.
Archer and Smith were also responsible for a burglary in Steeple Bumpstead on 16th March, where four shotguns were stolen, later believed to be used in the attack.
Further investigations revealed a stolen Audi S3 from a Brentwood burglary on 2nd April served as their getaway vehicle.
Smith was also convicted of driving while disqualified and driving without insurance.
In attempts to evade arrest, the men fled Essex, changed their appearances, and used false identities to book hotels.
Smith and Archer were linked to the offences through internet searches, voice messages, and prison phone calls illustrating their involvement.
Sentencing at Chelmsford Crown Court saw Smith receive 13 and-a-half years, Archer 18 years, and Buckland 12 and-a-half years behind bars.
Temporary Detective Inspector Steve Robson, who led the investigation, reflected on the case, noting the substantial threat the men posed to public safety.
Robson highlighted the perseverance of the team in navigating limited evidence to secure justice, stating, “The message from this case is clear – if you put someone’s safety at risk in Essex, you will be dealt with.”