Two men and a teenage boy have been charged with attempted murder following a shooting in Braintree, Essex, that left three people injured, including two teenagers who suffered serious facial and upper-body wounds. Police described the incident, which occurred in the town centre at around 10pm on 31 August, as a targeted attack linked to a dispute connected to criminal drug activity, though they stressed none of the injured were themselves involved in that activity.

Destiny Ema, 23, Kayden Brown, 18, and a 17-year-old boy who cannot be named for legal reasons all appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court after being charged. Ema faces additional charges from separate investigations, including attempted grievous bodily harm with intent, four firearms offences, harassment and malicious communications. A 16-year-old previously arrested has been released on bail until 30 November. Police said they were not looking for anyone else in connection with the shooting and believe it was directed by one specific group towards another rather than being a random attack.