Brooklyn, NY – A Brooklyn man was sentenced to 40 years to life in prison for a murder and subsequent shooting that targeted a police officer during a violent spree in May 2021, authorities confirmed. The incidents that transpired on the night of May 12 have left lingering wounds within the community and law enforcement.
Boyce Hayward, 30, was found guilty of the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Randall Roberts and the attempted murder of NYPD Officer Brian McGurran, among other charges. During the sentencing at the Brooklyn Supreme Court, the Assistant District Attorney, Robert Schwartz, emphasized the importance of safeguarding society from individuals like Hayward.
The events unfolded when Hayward approached a white 2015 BMW SUV that was stopped at a red light at the intersection of Madison St. and Broadway. He fired into the passenger side of the vehicle, killing Roberts instantly and injuring the driver, Malik Lucas. Mere minutes after the shooting, officers responded to a 911 call and encountered Hayward near Saratoga Park, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire. Officer McGurran, then 28, was shot in the vest and buttocks but survived thanks to his bulletproof vest.
During the gunfight, more than 20 shots were fired, with Hayward discharging five of those bullets. The officers on the scene returned fire, severely wounding Hayward. He was promptly taken into custody and received medical treatment for his injuries before being charged.
Having recovered from his wounds, Officer McGurran attended the sentencing along with several supporters and the grieving parents of Randall Roberts. The emotional toll of the incident was palpable in the courtroom as Roberts’ mother, Rose Vincent, shared her devastation and unresolved anger over the loss of her son through a statement read by the prosecutor.
The defense, led by attorney Lawrence Fredella, argued that Hayward was wrongfully identified as the shooter, suggesting inconsistencies in the evidence presented regarding the trajectory of the bullets. Fredella disclosed plans to appeal the verdict, despite the jury’s decision, which reflected a rejection of these claims based on the overwhelming evidence, according to Judge Danny Chun.
The prosecution had initially sought a sentence of 75 years to life, highlighting the severity of Hayward’s crimes, which also included prior felony drug offenses from 2015 and 2016. Despite the lesser sentence of 40 years to life, the decision was met with approval from law enforcement representatives.
Patrick Hendry, the president of the Police Benevolent Association, expressed satisfaction with the outcome but emphasized the significance of Hayward serving the full sentence, acknowledging the risks officers face when confronting such dangerous individuals.
The verdict and sentence conclude a chapter of fear and violence that shook the residents and police force of Brooklyn, reinforcing the judicial system’s resolve to address and penalize acts of brutal criminality. The community seeks to recover and find solace in the closure provided by the court’s decision. Amid the discussions of justice and punishment, the broader implications on crime, law enforcement, and community safety continue to be a significant concern for local authorities and residents alike.