Matas Sukaitis, 21, has been found guilty of attempted murder after shooting a 17-year-old boy in the back in a popular woodland in Corby. The victim was sitting on a bench in Hazel Wood with a friend on April 11 last year when Sukaitis appeared on the footpath and pulled out a black handgun. The teenager tried to run away but was hit in the back and collapsed. Sukaitis then stood over the wounded teen and attempted to shoot him again at point-blank range, but the firearm jammed twice, sparing his life. Before fleeing, Sukaitis stabbed the victim twice in the leg and kicked him in the face.
Victim's Injuries and Surgery
The teenager underwent surgery to remove the bullet, which had shattered a vertebra and perforated his bowel. Medics also stitched stab wounds on his legs and treated bruising to his face. The attack occurred during a sunny afternoon in a popular public area, causing widespread fear.
Drug Line and Arrest
Northamptonshire Police identified Sukaitis as operating the Frankie drug line, supplying crack cocaine and heroin in and around Corby in the months before the attack. He had previously pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs. Three days after the shooting, Sukaitis handed himself in but was released on bail. He was later charged after being detained at Gatwick Airport attempting to catch a flight to Norway.
Trial and Verdict
Following a month-long trial, a jury found Sukaitis guilty of attempted murder, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, and possession of a bladed article in a public place on Thursday, July 2. Sukaitis, formerly of Chaucer Close in Corby, will be sentenced on September 18.
Police Statement
Detective Sergeant Megan Scotney, who led the investigation, said: “Matas Sukaitis showed no regard for others around him, causing utmost fear by discharging a firearm in such a popular public place during a sunny afternoon. I have no doubt that Sukaitis’ intention was to kill his teenage victim, and it was extremely fortunate that the firearm jammed as he attempted to shoot the boy at point blank range. If it hadn't, he would have been facing a murder charge. Fortunately, the use of firearms remains rare within our communities but, tackling serious violence remains a priority for Northamptonshire Police and I am grateful to the jury for returning a guilty verdict and ensuring justice has been served.”
