Appeal for information following Fawkner targeted shooting

Detectives from the Armed Crime Squad are today releasing CCTV and images as part of their investigation into a targeted shooting in Fawkner last year.

Emergency services were called to Denys Street in Fawkner to reports a man had been shot just after 9.30am on Wednesday, 3 October.

Investigators believe a 49-year-old Lalor man had been lured to the address under the pretence of providing a quote for a trades job.

A white Mercedes Benz is captured on CCTV travelling on Denys Street around 9.05am that morning. It goes all the way around the roundabout before parking on the street.

The victim arrives just after 9.30am and can be seen walking along the street. A man exits the Mercedes and runs towards him, shooting him in the left ankle.

The bullet travelled straight through his ankle before exiting and hitting his right foot.

He was conveyed to hospital with serious injuries which he still requires ongoing treatment for.

The gunman then runs back to the waiting white vehicle, believed to be a 2018 Mercedes Benz GLC43, and flees the scene.

The vehicle was bearing cloned plates 1NB7FC and remains outstanding.

Investigators believe the address he was provided and asked to attend was chosen randomly and the incident is not connected to anyone living on that street.

Another witness at the scene of the incident was able to provide a description of the man – he is believed to be of African appearance, around 182cm tall, with a slim build, dark hair and brown eyes.

Police are today releasing a digital composite image of the man they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries in the hope someone may recognise him and be able to provide information on his current whereabouts.

At the time, he was wearing a dark hooded jumper with the hood pulled up, black track pants and black and white sneakers.

Investigators are also releasing CCTV of the incident in the hope someone may recognise the man involved.

Police believe the incident was targeted.

Anyone who recognises the man in the facefit or the CCTV is urged to come forward and contact police.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, with dashcam/CCTV footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Quotes attributable to Detective Inspector Adam Tilley, Armed Crime Squad:

“While we do believe this was a planned and targeted attack, it would have been incredibly frightening for those on the street who were simply going about their daily lives at 9.30 on a Wednesday morning.

“We have a significant investigation into the incident underway and are keen to speak to anyone who has information about the shooting or who recognises the man in the facefit or the CCTV.

“This had the potential to impact innocent parties and we will do absolutely everything in our power to bring those involved before the court.”

Maddy McDermott

Media Unit

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