On the first anniversary of the shooting murder of Mahmoud ‘Mick’ Hawi, detectives are appealing for information from the community that may assist to identify the driver of the getaway car.
Just after midday on Thursday 15 February 2018, emergency services responded after 37-year-old Mahmoud Hawi was shot by a man as he got into his car outside a gym on West Botany Street, Rockdale.
The alleged shooter ran from the scene before being driven away by another man in a Mercedes-Benz station wagon, which was later located on fire near Chandler Street, Rockdale. Both men were seen running from the burning vehicle.
Mr Hawi was taken to St George Hospital, where he later died.
Detectives from the State Crime Command’s Criminal Groups Squad are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting under Strike Force Amirs.
As the investigation continues, Strike Force Amirs detectives are appealing for assistance from the community to identify the man who drove the Mercedes-Benz from the scene of the shooting.
Criminal Groups Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent Deb Wallace, said investigators allege the shooting was well-planned and are continuing their inquiries to identify all those involved.
“Strike Force Amirs detectives have meticulously pieced together various aspects of what happened on this day last year, but we still have more work to do,” Det Supt Wallace said.
“Our current inquiries are focused on identifying the getaway driver and we’re hopeful the CCTV may refresh someone’s memory or encourage him to come forward.
“The first clip of CCTV depicts the man running along Chandler Street, after the Mercedes-Benz was set alight – he has a distinctive gait.
“The second clip of CCTV was captured about 20 minutes later and depicts the man walking with another man along Bowood Avenue, Bexley, where it is alleged the second getaway car was parked and stored.
“Anyone who knows him, or has information that may be relevant to our inquiries is urged to make contact with investigators,” Det Supt Wallace said.
Anyone with information in that may assist Strike Force Amirs detectives is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.