Shay Walker jailed for firearms offences

A man who pulled the trigger of a gun that killed Peter Hale was jailed for seven years and one month on Monday (7 October).

At around 4.30pm on Monday 29 January, it was reported that a man entered a flat on Haslingden Close and shot Peter, 50, who subsequently died in hospital. 

Shay Walker, 26 years, of Broad Green Road, was cleared of Peter Hale’s murder at a trial after stating he was not aware the firearm was loaded.

But he had earlier pleaded guilty to possession of a prohibited weapon and possession of ammunition without a certificate in relation to the gun.

He appeared at Liverpool Crown Court on Monday where he was sentenced to seven years, one month in prison.

Following the sentencing Detective Chief Inspector Jason Pye said: “Shay Walker admitted to being someone who was prepared to carry and store an extremely dangerous firearm.

“Merseyside is undoubtedly a safer place with him in prison, and we are pleased that he cannot cause any further harm.

“We have a dedicated Firearms Investigation Team who proactively investigate the use of guns in Merseyside, solving crimes as well as uncovering where guns are being stored, who is carrying them and ultimately who is prepared to fire them.

“We carry out regular stop searches, warrants and open land searches to locate weapons and ensure anyone involved in gun crime is brought to justice.

“It is vital that members of our communities come forward with information so we can make our communities safer for the decent, law-abiding people who live in areas affected by firearms.

“If you have any information about anyone carrying or using a dangerous weapon in your area please don’t hesitate to contact us.”

If you have got any information about the use or storage of weapons please DM @MerPolCC or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.