A TEENAGER who blasted a Widnes dad with a double-barrelled shotgun outside his home has been found guilty of attempted murder.

Ryan Duggan, aged 19, of Wavell Avenue in Widnes, was convicted today at Chester Crown Court of the attempted murder of 25-year-old Daniel Kennedy on October 15, 2014.

A jury of nine men and three women took one hour and 10 minutes to return a unanimous verdict after a three-day trial.

They also found him guilty of possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life.

Duggan had already admitted wounding, causing grievous bodily harm, possessing a firearm without a certificate and possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

Judge Roger Dutton said: "You have been convicted on compelling evidence of two extremely serious offences. Taking into consideration the offences you have already admitted, consideration will be given to an extremely lengthy sentence."

Duggan was remanded in custody for psychiatric reports. He will be sentenced on Friday, July 10.

On the night of the shooting, dad-of-two Mr Kennedy discovered his water had been cut off.

He suspected a gang of youths he had seen smoking cannabis and causing a nuisance in the communal hall had switched off the stopcock.

As they hurled abuse at him, he ended up chasing Duggan.

Mr Kennedy told the jury: “He spun round. I saw him holding a big silver thing in his hand.

“There was a flash in front of me and I felt a burning sensation in the bottom of my body.

“It took me off my feet.”

Pathologist Dr Brian Rogers said an iPhone in Mr Kennedy’s pocket had saved his life.

He told the court: “If one of those pellets had his aorta and gone into a vital organ, it would have led to significant internal haemorrhaging.

“He would have lost too much blood and would have died before he got to hospital.”

Det Insp Gary McIntyre, who led the investigation, said:  “Duggan’s actions that night were extreme and shocking.

“The victim went outside to speak to the group about the fact they had turned off the water supply resulting in the defendant shooting him with a powerful weapon.

“Fortunately, the victim’s mobile phone took the brunt of the shot and, as a result of this, he survived. 

“This is remarkable. Had that phone not been in his pocket at that time he would undoubtedly have died.

“Whilst I hope that the conclusion of this case today brings about a degree of closure for the victim, I am fully aware of the impact this case has had no him and the fact that the devastating injuries he sustained will affect him for the rest of his life.

“Despite making good progress he still requires treatment for his injuries, including further operations and rehabilitation.  The nightmare is far from over.

 “Duggan clearly believed that he was above the law. There was no doubt that his actions that night were to kill the victim and the jury has agreed with this.”

Inspector Mike Evans, of Widnes NPU, said:  “I hope that the successful conclusion of this case today helps to reassure the local community. 

“We will not tolerate the behaviour of anyone who believes they can inject fear, violence and intimidation into the heart of the community.

“This particular area had suffered from issues with bad behaviour and criminal damage and police and partners have worked tirelessly alongside each other – and the local community – to address any issues and to help improve the quality of life for local people.

“It was clear that many people living in the area were too scared to come forward and report any issues  for fear of reprisals. 

“No-one should have to live in fear and misery as a result of the actions of others . Residents can rest assured that the efforts of police and partners will continue."

Jordan Grimes, aged 22, from Burnley has already pleaded guilty to assisting an offender. 

Grimes, a friend of Duggan, had provided him with a safe haven by allowing him to stay at his flat in Burnley following the incident.  He is also due to be sentenced on July 10. 

Anyone who has any concerns regarding gum crime in Halton is urged to call Cheshire Police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.