Detectives from the Armed Crime Squad yesterday released 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 following reports a man had been shot just after 9:30am on Wednesday, October 3, 2024.
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.
According to Detective Inspector Adam Tilley of the Armed Crime Squad, 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.
“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,” Detective Inspector Adam Tilley said.
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 footage of the incident in the hope that someone will 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.
“This had the potential to impact innocent parties and we will do absolutely everything in our power to bring those involved before the court,” Detective Inspector Adam Tilley said.
Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
