Detectives investigating a public place shooting in Lidcombe are appealing for assistance from the community to identify the driver of a Ute they believe can assist with inquiries.
Officers from Auburn Police Area Command responded to reports of a crash at the intersection of Arthur Street and Richmond Road at Homebush, about 4.45pm on Sunday, November 20, where the occupants of a black Toyota Corolla and a white Toyota Hilux were allegedly fighting.
Before police arrived, the male driver of the Ute returned to his vehicle and left the scene. Two other vehicles were also involved in the incident; however, no injuries were reported.
On arrival, officers spoke with the occupants of the three remaining vehicles and commenced inquiries.
As inquiries continued into the crash, a separate report was received of an earlier altercation occurring about 4.30pm on Gallipoli Street, Lidcombe, involving occupants of a black hatchback and white ute, the same as those involved in the Homebush crash.
As part of investigations, a line-search was conducted by officers from the Public Order and Riot Squad at Gallipoli Street, on Monday, November 21, where police located evidence of a public-place shooting. A number of exhibits were seized for forensic and ballistic examinations.
Following further inquiries, an 18-year-old man was arrested at Auburn Police Station about 4.45pm on Monday, November 21.
Detectives subsequently executed a search warrant at a home at Auburn, where they seized a number of items relevant to the investigation.
The Auburn man was charged with four offences including ‘discharge firearm – intend cause grievous bodily harm’, ‘fire firearm in or near public place’, ‘acquire prohibited firearm – subject of a prohibition order’, and ‘passenger not disclose driver/other passengers’ identity’.
Police will allege in court that the man, who was the driver of the hatchback, discharged a firearm toward the occupants of the Ute while in Gallipoli Street.
He has been refused bail and will appear at Burwood Local Court on Tuesday, November 22.
As investigations into the public place shooting and crash continue, detectives are appealing for assistance from the community to identify the occupants of the Toyota Hilux.
Anyone who knows the identity of the driver or who has information which may assist investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Ellie Busby is a news reporter for Western Sydney Publishing Group. A graduate of the University of Hertfordshire and Western Sydney University, she is a journalism Major. Ellie has worked with Universal Media, The Cova Project and for a range of other organisations. In 2024, Ellie was named Young Writer of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.