A man from New Cross will spend the next 14 years in prison after he opened fire into a crowded barber’s in Bermondsey and shot an innocent bystander.

Joel Johnson, 27, was handed three life sentences following the shooting in May last year which left a 38-year-old woman in hospital after she was shot through the leg.

The victim was caught up in a brawl which started outside the barber’s on Rotherhithe New Road before continuing inside the shop.

Johnson appeared in the doorway before randomly shooting at the adults and children inside.

The female victim, who was hit in the leg, was taken to hospital for treatment.

Officers from the Met Police were able to recover the bullet and identify Johnson, who was arrested on June 17 and charged with multiple offences.

After a trial at the Old Bailey Johnson was found guilty of attempted murder, wounding with intent and possession of a firearm.

On Friday (January 22) he was sentenced to three life sentences, to run concurrently, with a minimum of 14 years behind bars.

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Detective Inspector Maria Harris, from the Met's trident and area crime command, said it is fortunate no-one was killed that afternoon.

She said: "Johnson has a history of violence and is a very dangerous man.

“On that day in May he fired a gun into a crowded shop without a care for who he may injure.

"Detectives from trident continue to work hard to arrest those individuals who carry guns and threaten violence on the capital's streets.

"Today's sentencing reflects how seriously the courts take this behaviour and should stand as a warning to those who carry out these reckless and dangerous crimes."

Johnson, of Baildon Street, had previously pleaded guilty at the same court in September 2015 to possession of a firearm and possession of ammunition.

He was sentenced to seven years and three years imprisonment to run concurrently.

Police are continuing to appeal for information to trace another man who they wish to speak with in connection with the ongoing investigation into the fight at the barber's shop.

Detectives would like to speak with Igho Ejeta, 29, from south London or anyone who knows of his whereabouts.

Anyone with information should contact officers via 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.