It was a historical night in Los Santos, as The Lost MC were released from prison in an unprecedented move by Judge Morgan. After speaking with multiple Law Enforcement Officers and citizens it was clear that this came as a huge blow to both Law Enforcement and City Hall alike. In a statement the Mayor has advised “An immediate review within the Department of Justice is now underway to establish all of the facts behind this decision and the processes therein” showing the verdict of the release itself was not met well.
Myself (Maisy Murphy) and freelance reporter, Chris Barstow-Carson were standing in the empty Bolingbroke prison car-park as it began to liven up with people coming from afar to watch the spectacle at hand. Waiting at the prison gates for them were multiple friends and family members of the group, along with citizens of the city who were there to “witness history” (Quote by Saint William). Although many haven’t met the Motorcycle Gang directly, they’re aware of the terrors that have unfolded at their hands. After speaking with a partner of one of the The Lost members waiting at the gates excitedly, Cherry told me her thoughts on the whole situation “It was a huge mistake that they were put away in the first place, and I’m just glad that it’s been rectified now”.
As the weather transformed into a storm, the atmosphere became heavy with it. Multiple members of LSPD were securing the front gate, whilst BSCO were inside processing 5 inmates to ensure a safe escort from the premises. Both departments working hand in hand like a well oiled machine.
Finally, all eyes were on the path to the front gates as BSCO walked beside the members finally marching to their freedom. The gates opened just as a flash of lightning and boom of thunder filled the skies like an evil omen of rage sieging down from the clouds. The Lost were free. They walked over to greet their loved ones and Cherry finally got her moment of happiness as she embraced her partner.
This moment was short lived, as suddenly a loud shot was heard from afar and she was on the floor in a pool of blood. Shots fired. Chaos ensued as everyone ran for cover behind cars and The Lost, unarmed to defend themselves, shielded behind their vehicles. Law Enforcement were quick off the mark suppressing the fire at The Lost MC and within minutes it was over, with multiple casualties and one apprehended suspect. As Emergency Services attended to those injured, BCSO did rounds ensuring that bystanders were unharmed in the mayhem.
I was unable to obtain any statements from The Lost about their feelings on being released during this time due to the situation at hand. I was however, able to Chief Robert Maxwell who advised the following statement from the LSPD:
“Whilst I’m unable to give too much information at present. LSPD were assisting BCSO with the release of The Lost MC. Upon the release there were shots fired. We currently have one suspect in custody and we’re investigating what happened. There will be further arrests made upon that investigation’s conclusion.”
After also Speaking with Captain Veronica Monroe of the BCSO and Deputy Ramona Rigby it was clear that they were extremely busy working the evidence from the scene. It was plain to see that this was a shock to the Captain, who advised that they were only made aware of this recently – furthering implications of communication issues from the Judge. Whilst I was unable to get specifics on names of the suspects, the following statement was issued by the BCSO:
We were notified with very short notice that there would be 4 members released early from prison. We decided that we would assist local corrections to ensure transition from the holding cell to their freedom was a smooth transition for them. We had 3 Deputies and a member of the newly formed GSU (Gang Suppression Unit) from the LSPD who were inside. Once we got inside, we were advised that there would be an extra release making it 5 prisoners set free. We advised them of the process and that we would take them out via the driveway area, with the larger gates. They were co-operative during that time and we were able to move them through without incident. We were then able to get them outside and reunited with their friends and family.
Right now we are unsure, but we did hear a shot fired as we were standing in front. We took cover and began to return fire to try to suppress the assailants. At this time we believe there to be 4-5 assailants. Based on the evidence, we know there were at least 4, but we believe there to have been more. We were then able to apprehend one suspect but we’re unable to release any names at this time. LSPD took over and escorted the EMS back to pillbox as we had 3 injured individuals who received treatment at Pillbox Medical Centre. I believe 2 suspects and one other individual.
I then spoke with new Deputy Ramona Rigby who advised that this was her first day on the job as and it was quite a surprising situation that she found herself in. However, she clearly took to it well with Captain Monroe singing her praises for handling the scene and evidence with caution/care and bravery in the field.
All in all, it was a night of history in Los Santos. With Chris Barstow-Carson there, capturing footage I’m sure this will be a night to remember for all involved.
*The Lost declined to comment at this time.
Maisy Murphy
Weazel News
