Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn announces that 23-year-old David A. Douglas of Buffalo pleaded guilty this afternoon before State Supreme Court Justice Debra Givens to one count of Attempted Murder in the Second Degree (Class “B” violent felony) and one count of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree (Class “C” violent felony).

On July 4, 2021, at approximately 12:35 a.m., the defendant fired multiple shots from an illegal gun outside of a restaurant on Ellicott Street in the City of Buffalo. Three people were injured by gunfire. The victims were taken to the hospital in civilian vehicles with minor injuries.

The defendant was located by Buffalo Police officers on July 16, 2021. He was found in possession of a loaded, illegal handgun at the time of his arrest.

Douglas faces a maximum of 40 years in prison when he is sentenced on Tuesday, December 20, 2022 at 9:30 a.m. He continues to remain held without bail.

DA Flynn commends the Buffalo Police Department Gun Violence Unit for their work in this investigation.  

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Frank A. Strano of the Major Crimes Unit and Assistant District Attorney Rebecca L. Schnirel of the Homicide Unit.