A shocking shooting took place outside a pub in Sydney on Sunday evening (August 18), leaving one man dead and another seriously wounded. The incident unfolded in a busy inner-city area, sparking panic among bystanders who witnessed the gunfire. Some patrons at the pub reported hearing multiple loud shots and screams before people rushed for cover.
According to police, emergency services were called to the Harold Park Hotel in Forest Lodge at about 6:40 p.m., after two men were suddenly attacked by gunmen who then fled the scene in a waiting car. Authorities believe the attackers targeted the victims deliberately, though the motive is still under investigation.
One Killed, Another Shot Multiple Times
Police confirmed that a 39-year-old man could not be revived despite desperate efforts by paramedics, police officers, and even a local doctor who ran to help when the chaos began. He died at the scene, leaving the area cordoned off as detectives examined evidence.
The second victim, a 31-year-old man, was chased by the shooters through the rear of the pub before being hit multiple times. Witnesses described scenes of shock as he collapsed behind the hotel. Quick-thinking police officers and a group of nearby medical students provided emergency first aid until paramedics arrived. He was later taken to hospital, where doctors reported he was in stable condition, though still under close observation.
Pub shooting rocks Sydney's inner-west: One dead and another critical https://t.co/ffEH5EM5fs via @DailyMail
— Denise Ravizza (@RavizzaDenise3) August 17, 2025
Police Condemn Callous Attack
Detective Superintendent Alfio Sergi strongly condemned the ambush, describing it as an “outrageous, brazen, callous attack.” He explained that the level of violence posed a serious threat not only to the intended targets but also to innocent bystanders. According to him, the shooting could have resulted in more casualties, as a bullet shattered a pub window and narrowly missed a female staff member working inside. Sergi stressed that such incidents show a “complete disregard for community safety” and warned that police will pursue every lead to bring those responsible to justice.
Manhunt Underway
A major investigation is now underway, with police searching for a dark-coloured vehicle believed to have been used in the attackers’ getaway. Detectives are reviewing CCTV footage from the surrounding area and conducting door-to-door inquiries to gather more information. Authorities have also appealed to the public for assistance, urging anyone who witnessed the shooting or who has dashcam or mobile footage from the area to come forward. Police reassured residents that additional patrols have been deployed in Forest Lodge and nearby suburbs to maintain community safety while the manhunt continues.
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