Jury Acquits Man in Guy Fawkes Night Shooting Dispute

A jury has acquitted Tuhi Alexander of charges related to a shooting incident that occurred during a fireworks dispute on Guy Fawkes Night in November 2022. The case, heard in the Wellington District Court, involved allegations that Alexander had intentionally wounded a guest of his neighbour, Iziah Hughes, who required surgery to remove a bullet from his shoulder.

The jury deliberated for over 12 hours before reaching their verdict. During the trial, conflicting testimonies emerged from witnesses, many of whom exhibited memory loss and provided statements that contradicted earlier reports made to police. Each party accused the other of possessing and firing the weapon in question.

The incident arose when Alexander, 38, confronted a group of individuals on Judd Crescent in Lower Hutt, claiming they were discharging fireworks that frightened his young daughter. According to Alexander, he approached Hughes to address the disturbance but was met with hostility. He described how Hughes appeared eager for a fight, escalating the situation.

Witnesses provided varying accounts of the events that led to the shooting. Some claimed that Alexander did not participate in the firing of any weapon, while others suggested that the complainant may have accidentally shot himself during the altercation. The defence argued that there was insufficient evidence to prove that Alexander had shot Hughes, leading to the jury’s eventual decision.

The case highlights the complexities surrounding self-defense and the challenges in establishing clear narratives in high-stress situations. The prosecution faced difficulties in presenting a coherent timeline, as several witnesses struggled to recall details from the night of the incident.

In the aftermath of the trial, Alexander expressed relief over the jury’s decision, while Hughes’ injuries remain a point of contention. The incident underscores the risks associated with fireworks and the potential for disputes to escalate into violence, especially in residential areas during celebrations.

As communities continue to navigate the use of fireworks during festive occasions, this case serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and communication among neighbours.