New South Wales police have launched an investigation following a shocking shooting outside the Harold Park Hotel in Forest Lodge, Sydney’s inner west. The incident occurred on Sunday night, leaving one man dead and another seriously injured.
The Incident
Emergency services were called to the scene on Ross Street around 6:40 PM. Two victims were reportedly ambushed by unknown assailants as they walked from the pub to their car. According to Detective Superintendent Alfio Sergi of the Leichhardt Police Area Command, the attack was “outrageous, brazen, and callous.”
A 39-year-old man succumbed to his injuries at the scene despite the efforts of nearby police, paramedics, and even a local doctor. The other victim, a 31-year-old man, was chased by the offender before being shot multiple times. He collapsed behind the hotel and was treated by police and medical students at the site before being taken to the hospital, where he remains in stable condition.
Community Impact and Police Appeal
During the attack, a bullet struck one of the pub’s windows, narrowly missing a female staff member in what could have been an even greater tragedy. Witnesses described the event as terrifying, with one telling ABC she heard more than a dozen gunshots and initially mistook them for firecrackers. Another witness told the Sydney Morning Herald they saw a man shot “at least six times” in the neck, chest, and legs.
Police believe the suspects fled the scene in a dark-colored vehicle and have issued an appeal for any witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to come forward. A crime scene has been established, and detectives from Leichhardt Police, with the assistance of the homicide squad, are investigating the attack.
Ongoing Investigation
Det Supt Sergi emphasized the seriousness of the crime and the importance of community assistance in bringing the perpetrators to justice. More updates are expected as the investigation continues.
The incident has sparked concern and sorrow among the local community, with calls for swift justice for those affected by this senseless violence. Meanwhile, police have urged anyone with information regarding the shooting to contact them immediately.
Stay updated with the latest developments in this case as authorities work to uncover more details.
