Detective Chief Inspector Steve McGrath, leading the investigation into the murder of 19-year-old Ellis Cox, has revealed that the self-loading pistol used to kill him was employed in two separate shootings before the fatal incident on June 23, 2024. The gun was used to fire at a car in Garston, damaging a window, and three months prior to Ellis's death, a flat on Willowdale Road in Walton was sprayed with bullets from the same weapon. The gun has not been used since and remains unrecovered by police.
Background of the Shooting
Ellis Cox, of Walton Vale, was fatally shot near the Liverpool Loop Line, just minutes from his home, at around 10:50 pm. He and his friends were returning from a day out when they were approached by individuals on electric bikes near Taskers on the Liver Industrial estate. Ellis attempted to flee but was shot in the back. The shooting occurred amid a street-level drug dealing conflict between rival factions in north Liverpool. Ellis had no involvement in crime, but his associates that night were part of one gang targeted by another.
Gang Feud and Previous Violence
Detective Chief Inspector McGrath explained that the dispute involved groups dealing drugs in Walton, Aintree, and Fazakerley. Around 18 months before Ellis's death, incidents such as street fights and an aggravated burglary—where males forced entry into an address, likely seeking drugs or weapons—indicated factional tensions. Those with Ellis on the night had associations with individuals involved in these earlier events. McGrath noted that Ellis had changed his friendship group roughly one to two months prior, after his family went on holiday, leading him to become friends with these individuals through a third party.
Arrests and Investigation Progress
The investigation has made nine arrests, including three in recent weeks. McGrath stated that three or four people were directly involved at the scene, but others may have been involved in arranging the murder or the build-up. He expressed confidence that the force is close to identifying the trigger puller, describing the responsible group as tight-knit. He added that the fact Ellis was an innocent party may cause trepidation among suspects, but allegiances may change over time.
Family's Plea for Justice
Ellis's mother, Carolyn Cox, said her family's life has changed irrevocably. She urged the public to search their consciences and provide information, stating, "Why would you not want these people off the street? Because they will do it again." She emphasized that if it could happen to Ellis, it could happen to anyone, calling the perpetrators "scum with guns." Ellis's aunt, Julie O'Toole, added that the killers continue their lives while the family grieves, and she called on those with information to speak up rather than focus on perceived police shortcomings.
Rewards and Appeals
Crimestoppers has increased its reward to £20,000 for information leading to a conviction, and Ellis's family has doubled that reward. Police continue to urge anyone with information to come forward via a dedicated web page or Crimestoppers.
