A quiet afternoon in Wollert, a northern suburb of Melbourne, was shattered by gunfire yesterday in what police believe was a targeted gangland attack.
Witnesses reported hearing up to six shots ring out near a local shopping precinct around 3:30pm, sending shoppers scrambling for cover. The victim, a 28-year-old man with known links to outlaw motorcycle gangs, was rushed to hospital with critical injuries.
Suburban Streets Turn Crime Scene
Forensic teams spent hours combing the area as shocked residents looked on. "It's normally so peaceful here," one local told reporters. "To have this happen in broad daylight is terrifying."
Detectives confirmed the shooting appeared to be "targeted and organised", with the assailants fleeing in a stolen vehicle later found abandoned several kilometres away.
Gang Tensions Boil Over
This latest incident comes amid growing concerns about gang violence spreading beyond Melbourne's traditional crime hotspots. Police sources suggest the attack may be connected to an ongoing feud between rival motorcycle clubs.
"We're seeing these conflicts move into residential areas," a senior officer warned. "It's unacceptable that innocent families are being exposed to this danger."
Increased Police Presence
Authorities have promised a visible increase in patrols across Wollert and surrounding suburbs. Investigators are appealing for dashcam footage from anyone who was in the area between 3pm and 4pm yesterday.
Meanwhile, the victim remains under police guard at hospital, with his condition described as serious but stable.
