Two men convicted of 'horrifying' firearms attack
TWO South Yorkshire men have this week been found guilty of a string of firearms offences in connection with the shooting of a 20-year-old in Rotherham in 2024.
A spokesperson for South Yorkshire Police said: “On September 11 2024, we were called to reports of a firearms discharge at Ferham Road, Rotherham.
“Emergency services attended including armed response officers and a 20-year-old man was taken to hospital with non-life threatening or changing injuries.
“Two other people, a man and a woman, also suffered minor injuries during the incident.
“Reece Barnes, (32) of Claremont Street, Rotherham, and Micahiah Lewis (29), of Vikinglea Close, Sheffield were both charged in connection with the incident.
“On May 5 2026, at Sheffield Crown Court, Barnes pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.
“On May 26 he was found guilty at the same court of attempted murder, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
“On December 12 2025, Lewis pleaded guilty to possession of a Class B drug, namely cannabis.
“On May 26, the 29-year-old was found guilty of section 18 assault, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
“Both men have been remanded into custody ahead of their sentencing on September 22 at Sheffield Crown Court.”
Claire Moss, the senior investigating officer for the case, said: “This was a horrifying attack in which the 20-year-old victim could easily have been killed or left with lifelong injuries, and it is through luck alone that this was not the case.
“Barnes was prepared to take a life that day, and I am glad that the jury saw through his lies, and he has been convicted of attempted murder among other offences.
“Lewis’ involvement in serious firearms offences was also proven to the jury, and I am glad that he will be sentenced alongside his partner in crime.
“I am incredibly proud of the officers who worked hard to build a case against these two violent men and to ensure they face the justice they richly deserve.
“Just this week we have seen the devastating effects gun violence has on our community and how innocent people can get caught in the crossfire.
“We have a zero-tolerance policy for gun crime and are committed to removing illegal firearms from our streets."