A second individual has been formally charged with murder after a young father was shot and killed in a brazen public attack in Sydney's west, sparking a police pursuit and a major investigation.
A Brazen Attack in Blacktown
Emergency services rushed to Carinya Street in Blacktown shortly before midday on Friday following reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, officers discovered 28-year-old Mal Seve, a father-of-two, suffering from gunshot wounds to his neck, chest, and leg.
Despite the efforts of paramedics at the scene, Mr Seve could not be saved and was pronounced dead. The incident prompted an immediate and forceful response from local police.
The Pursuit and Arrests
Police spotted a Mazda ute leaving the area and attempted to stop the vehicle. When the driver allegedly failed to stop, a police pursuit was initiated. The chase concluded less than a kilometre away on Kildare Road after the utility vehicle crashed.
Two men, aged 18 and 25, allegedly fled from the crashed car on foot. Both were apprehended by police a short time later.
The 18-year-old, Hoani Tewhare, was charged with murder, taking and driving a conveyance without consent, and failing to stop during a police pursuit. He remains in custody and is scheduled to face court in January.
Ongoing Investigation and Wider Context
The second man, aged 25, was taken to hospital with minor injuries under police guard. He has since been charged with murder and a series of other offences, including using an offensive weapon to prevent lawful detention and breach of bail. He was refused bail and is set to appear at Blacktown Local Court on Monday.
Police have confirmed that both charged men and Mr Seve were known to them. Homicide detectives have launched Strike Force Depew to investigate the murder.
This shooting is part of a disturbing trend in Sydney, which has seen more than a dozen public shootings, arson attacks, and kidnappings since Christmas 2024. In response, police established the 150-officer strong Taskforce Falcon in May to tackle the escalating underworld warfare.
Superintendent Brendan Gorman emphasised the seriousness with which police are treating such violence, stating, 'Public place shootings and all shootings, police take very seriously - it's one of our number one priorities. Police will do whatever it takes to end that violence.'
