Two men have been sentenced to 30 years in prison after being found guilty of attempted murder for shooting at a moving car in Yeovil.
James McGuinness, 31, from Yeovil, and Junior Renford, 31, from London, were convicted of multiple firearms offences linked to the incident at Bofors Park, Lufton trading estate, in October 2025.
On the afternoon of October 1, the pair chased a vehicle through the trading estate in McGuinness’ red Dodge Nitro, firing a pistol at the car as it attempted to escape. Remarkably, none of the two people inside the targeted vehicle were injured.
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Following an intensive investigation, both McGuinness and Renford were arrested and charged with attempted murder, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, possession of a firearm while prohibited for life, and possession of ammunition without a certificate. McGuinness also faced an additional charge for possession of a stun taser.
Despite their initial denials, a jury at Taunton Crown Court found both men guilty on all counts. On July 3, they received 30-year prison sentences.
Detective Constable Josh Hawkins commented, “McGuinness and Renford showed blatant disregard for public safety, chasing and shooting at the victims in a busy area. It is only by chance that no one was hurt, either in the vehicle or bystanders in the trading estate.”
He added, “Their dangerous actions represent a serious threat to the community. The lengthy sentences reflect the grave nature of their crimes. Thanks to thorough police work, these individuals are now behind bars and cannot harm the public.”