Three Men Face Charges Two Years After Fatal Hunting Trip Shooting
Three men have been formally charged two years after a tragic incident during a hunting expedition resulted in the death of one of their companions from a gunshot wound. The events unfolded on March 1, 2024, at a remote property known as Come by Chance, located near Walgett in central north New South Wales.
Emergency Response and Fatal Discovery
Emergency services were called to the property following reports that a man had been injured after falling from a utility vehicle. Upon arrival, paramedics discovered a 47-year-old male with a critical gunshot wound. Despite immediate and extensive efforts to revive him, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.
In the aftermath, a comprehensive crime scene investigation was launched. All firearms used during the hunting trip were seized by authorities, and a detailed report was prepared for the coroner to assist in determining the circumstances surrounding the death.
Strike Force Investigation Leads to Arrests
The investigation, conducted under Strike Force McCudden, involved an extensive two-year probe into the incident. This led to the arrest of Fathi Khalil, a 45-year-old man, at Mount Druitt Police Station in western Sydney on Friday. Khalil was charged with manslaughter and using an unlicensed firearm.
Following his arrest, Khalil appeared before Mount Druitt Local Court, where he was granted bail under strict conditions. He is scheduled to return to court in Walgett on May 11 for further proceedings.
Additional Charges for Two Other Men
In addition to Khalil, two other men involved in the hunting trip have also been charged. The men, aged 42 and 39, were issued court attendance notices for firearm-related offences. They will appear alongside Khalil in Walgett Local Court on May 11 to face these charges.
The charges stem from the police seizure of multiple firearms after the hunting trip on the remote property, which ended in the man's death. The investigation highlights the serious consequences of firearm misuse and the rigorous efforts of law enforcement in pursuing justice in such cases.
