Linked shootings lead to 10 attempted murder charges for pair from Brampton: police

Two men from Brampton are facing nearly 30 combined charges including five counts each of attempted murder after a pair of shootings police say were linked.

Just before 8:00 p.m. on March 30, police say there was an altercation between two groups of people outside a residence in the area of Dixie Rd. and Moregate Cres. in Brampton.

Police say a gun was fired during the incident and suspects fled the scene in a silver BMW sedan.

Two victims suffered non-life-threatening injuries according to police. One of the victims was treated at a hospital, and the other at the scene.

Then around 6:20 p.m. last Thursday (June 15), police say there was another incident between two groups in the area of Williams Pkwy. and Pertosa Dr.

Police say a gun was also fired during the altercation and the suspects also fled in a silver BMW sedan, and two others suffered life-threatening injuries.

Investigators believe that the shootings are linked and were targeted incidents.

Police arrested a 24-year-old and a 19-year-old at a residence in Brampton on Friday, as well as a 26-year-old man from Cambridge in connection to the shootings. A sawed-off shotgun was also seized.

Justin Soares, 24, of Brampton has been charged with:

• Robbery
• Attempt Murder Using Firearm (X5)
• Occupant of Motor Vehicle Knowing There was a Firearm
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime
• Possession for the Purpose
• He was held for a bail hearing and appeared before the Ontario Court of Justice in Brampton.

Michael Stewart, 19, of Brampton has been charged with:

• Robbery
• Attempt Murder Using Firearm (X5)
• Unauthorized Possession of Firearm
• Knowledge of Unauthorized Possession of Firearm (X2)
• Discharge Firearm with Intent (X2)
• Careless Use of Firearm (X2)
• Possession of a Loaded Prohibited or Restricted Firearm
• Aggravated Assault
• Mischief Over $5000
• Mischief Under $5000

Rakquan Wickland, a 26-year-old man from Cambridge is charged with the following offences:

• Attempt Murder Using a Firearm (X4)

Soares and Stewart were held for a bail hearing and appeared before the Ontario Court of Justice in Brampton. None of the allegations have been proven in court.

Police are asking anyone with information including video surveillance, dashcam or digital video footage is encouraged to Peel Regional Police at 905-453-2121 ext.2133. You can also contact Peel CrimeStoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.peelcrimestoppers.ca.