Police Still Seeking 1 Suspect In Vernon Attempted Murder Case

VERNON, CT — One key suspect in an attempted murder case in the Rockville section of Vernon remained in custody Thursday on bonds totaling $1.1 million while the manhunt continued for the second.

The case involves a daytime shooting incident on Prospect Street on Aug. 27.

Jakwai Sosa, 21, of 157 Union St., appeared in court Wednesday. In the shooting case, his bond was set at $1 million on charges that include conspiracy to commit murder, second-degree assault with a firearm and various other charges, police said.

Another $100,000 bond was assigned to charges that include operating a drug factory, possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell and various drug charges related to the search of his home, police added.

He did not post either bond and remained in custody Thursday with an Oct. 16 date to return to court, records show.

The booking image of Jakwai Sosa. (Vernon police)

A second shooting suspect, 18-year-old Trenton Merrill, also of 157 Union St., remained at large Thursday.

Arrest warrants have been issued for Merrill on charges that include attempted murder and other felonies, police said. He should be considered armed and dangerous and anyone who sees him should immediately call police, authorities said.

According to a warrant, Merrill was identified as the primary shooter. The gun involved was a semi-automatic pistol with .40-cal ammunition, a warrant states. The gun was recovered at the scene, police said.

Trenton Merrill. (Vernon police)

In all, Vernon police have charged five people in connection with the shooting incident and the subsequent discovery of what police are calling a drug operation at 157 Union St., warrants show.

See details of the case here.