Gunman jailed over Wednesbury club shooting
Police are still looking to trace another man who is also wanted in connection with the incident
A gunman has been jailed for more than 30 years over a shooting inside a Wednesbury club.
Shaquille Blake fired a gun at a man in the foyer of MJs Bar, Bridge Street, at almost point blank range in August 2023.
Blake then kicked his target in the face before he was ushered out of the premises and fled the area.
The victim presented at hospital with abdominal and arm injuries and this was the first time police became aware of a shooting.
Officers identified the venue as the location and Blake as a prime suspect for the incident which happened at just before 4am on 13 August 2023.
Blake fled to Dubai shortly after the shooting but, following his return to the UK, he was arrested during a traffic stop in Ladywood almost a year later.
The 30-year-old, from Kelsall Croft, Birmingham, was convicted of attempted murder and possession of a firearm following a trial.
He has now been jailed for 34 years at Birmingham Crown Court on Thursday (13 February).
Detective Chief Inspector Alastair Orencas said: "Blake not only carried a gun but was fully prepared to fire the weapon. There's no doubt on another day this could have had really tragic consequences.
"We have a team of highly-skilled detectives who worked tirelessly to make sure he was convicted of this crime. The sentence shows just how serious offences involving guns are taken, and when caught you face a long time behind bars."
Police say their investigation is far from over as they're also looking to trace Ricardo Mendez, who is also wanted in connection with the incident.
The 33-year-old from Walsall is believed to have left the country shortly after the shooting.
Officers say they're working with various agencies to try and locate him, and they're keen to hear from anyone with information which could help.
You can contact them via Live Chat on their website, or by calling 101, and quote 20/703260/23.
Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.