Police have charged two men as an investigation into a fatal shooting in Sydney’s west earlier this year continues.
On Monday 16 March 2026, officers attached to Auburn Police Area Command commenced an investigation into an alleged shooting on Shale Street, Lidcombe.
A 38-year-old man was taken to a hospital; however, he could not be revived.
A crime scene was established, and detectives established Strike Force Vanport to investigate the incident.
Following inquiries, four men – aged 26, 22, 21, and 19 – have been charged and remain before the court.
Following further inquiries, about 8.20am today (Tuesday 4 August 2026), investigators with the assistance of the State Crimes’ Robbery and Serious Crimes Squad and the Tactical Operations Unit, arrested three men, including two 19-year-olds and an 18-year-old man, who was allegedly wanted on outstanding warrant, at Coledale Beach.
All three were taken to Wollongong Police Station, where the warrant was executed and the younger man was charged with murder and wound person with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
A 19-year-old man was charged with accessory after the fact to murder.
Both men were refused bail to appear before Bail Division Court 3 tomorrow (Wednesday 5 August 2026).
Inquiries into the incident continue.
The other 19-year-old man was charged over a separate matter, under Strike Force Cobra, into the alleged attempted kidnap and robbery of a 20-year-old man in Kellyville on Saturday 13 June 2026.
He was charged with attempt take/detain person in company with intent obtain advantage and refused bail to appear before Bail Division Court tomorrow (Wednesday 5 August 2026).
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
