RIVERSTONE, NSW — A man has been shot and killed in a shocking daylight attack in Sydney’s northwest suburb of Riverstone, prompting a major police investigation and growing concern among residents about public safety in the area.
The fatal shooting occurred around 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday on Annaluke Street, a residential street typically known for its quiet character. Emergency services rushed to the scene following multiple triple-zero calls reporting gunfire in the neighborhood.
When first responders arrived, they discovered the man — believed to be in his 30s or 40s — with critical gunshot wounds. Paramedics attempted life-saving treatment, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Large-Scale Police Operation Launched
The NSW Police Force has since established a large crime scene around Annaluke Street. Detectives from the Homicide Squad and Northwest Metropolitan Region Command are working together on the case, treating it as a targeted shooting.
Forensic officers spent hours examining the scene under bright floodlights, collecting evidence and canvassing the neighborhood for any surveillance footage or eyewitness accounts. The street was closed to all traffic throughout the evening, with uniformed officers standing guard.
“This was a brazen act of violence carried out in broad daylight,” a police spokesperson said. “We are urgently appealing to anyone with information or video footage to come forward.”
The identity of the victim has not yet been officially released, pending formal identification and notification of next of kin.
Community Shocked by Daylight Violence
The Riverstone community has been left rattled by the incident, with residents describing the shooting as “terrifying” and “deeply unsettling.” Several said they heard multiple loud bangs before seeing flashing lights and swarms of police arriving on the scene.
“It’s really scary. I was in the kitchen and heard what sounded like two loud pops,” said one local mother. “When I looked out the window, the whole street was swarming with police.”
Another neighbor, who did not wish to be named, said he saw a dark vehicle speed away moments after the shots rang out.
“It looked like they knew exactly what they were doing,” he said. “Then they were gone.”
Police Hunt for Suspect or Suspects
Police have not confirmed whether a suspect has been identified or arrested, but the shooter remains at large, and investigators believe the attack may have been targeted. However, they are not ruling out any possibilities at this stage.
“We are looking at all leads and trying to piece together the movements of the victim and any potential persons of interest,” the spokesperson said.
Police are also urging anyone who was driving through the area at the time — particularly between 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. — to check their dashcam footage for any suspicious activity or vehicles.
Riverstone Residents Demand Answers
The shooting has reignited public debate about safety in suburban neighborhoods and the visibility of gun violence in Sydney’s outskirts.
“We moved here for peace and safety,” said one longtime resident. “This feels like something out of a movie — but it happened right outside our homes.”
Local councillors have already called for increased patrols and community reassurance efforts in the wake of the incident.
What We Know So Far
- A man was fatally shot in broad daylight around 6:00 p.m. on Annaluke Street, Riverstone.
- Emergency services responded quickly, but the victim died at the scene.
- Police have established a crime scene and launched a homicide investigation.
- Authorities believe the shooting was targeted, but the shooter remains on the run.
- Residents and motorists with CCTV or dashcam footage are urged to contact police immediately.
Next Steps in the Investigation
The investigation is expected to intensify in the coming days as detectives review forensic evidence and interview local witnesses. A post-mortem examination will be conducted to confirm the cause of death and potentially provide more forensic clues.
Police have reassured the public that additional resources are being allocated to the case, and patrols will be increased in the area in the short term.
“We understand the public’s concern. This was a shocking event. Rest assured, we are doing everything in our power to identify and locate those responsible,” the NSW Police spokesperson said.
How to Help
Anyone with information that may assist police is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a report online. All information is confidential, and callers can remain anonymous.
This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.