Jahmel Joseph, 29, killed 30-year-old Jordan Rodney in Hammersmith, on June 11, 2025, in a late-night attack that also left another man injured.
On Thursday, June 18, Joseph was sentenced at the Old Bailey to life with a minimum term of 39 years after being convicted of murder, attempted murder, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, dangerous driving, and possessing a prohibited firearm.
The shooting took place at around 11.20pm at a wake on Claxton Grove.
Joseph had argued with Mr Rodney earlier in the evening and was ejected from the venue.
He returned on a motorcycle and fired at both men before fleeing the scene.
Both victims were taken to hospital, but Mr Rodney died the next day.
The second man, also in his 30s, survived with minor injuries.
CCTV footage showed the motorcycle returning to Eaton Rise in Ealing, where Joseph lived.
Police tracked his movements and located him the following day in Isleworth after a traffic camera flagged his car.
During a police pursuit, Joseph crashed into several vehicles, abandoned the car on South Street, and fled on foot.
He was arrested nearby in a garden on Tolson Road.
Officers recovered a black bag containing the shotgun used in the shooting.
Forensic analysis later confirmed that Joseph’s DNA was on the weapon.
In a statement, Mr Rodney’s family said: “Today’s sentence brings some measure of justice, but nothing can lessen the devastating loss of Jordan.
“He was a wonderful character who could light up any room with his wit, humour and kindness.
“He will be deeply and truly missed every day by his parents, brothers, girlfriend, family and friends.”
Detective Chief Inspector Alex Gammampila, who led the investigation at the Metropolitan Police, said: “Our thoughts today are with the family of Jordan Rodney, and with the other victim in the case.
“Jahmel Joseph left behind a trail of utter destruction – one which claimed the life of his own cousin.
“It is a credit to the investigation team and armed response officers that Joseph was swiftly identified and arrested, and that his actions will not go unpunished.
“Despite his efforts to conceal his identity – wearing a motorcycle helmet and removing the numberplates from his getaway motorbike – our exhaustive CCTV enquiries and discovery of the murder weapon forced him to admit his guilt.”