Former NRL Star Matt Utai Shot in Sydney Drive-By Attack
Former New Zealand and Samoa international rugby league player Matt Utai, 44, is in a serious condition after being shot in the upper shoulder and leg in a brazen drive-by shooting in Greenacre, Sydney, on Tuesday morning. Emergency services were called to Macquarie St around 6am following reports of multiple gunshots.
Details of the Shooting
Police were told Utai was shot while getting into his car. The occupants of a white SUV fired upon him before speeding away from the scene. Paramedics treated Utai at the scene before transporting him to hospital for emergency surgery. A vehicle matching the description was later found on fire in Wiley Park and has been seized for forensic examination.
Superintendent Rodney Hart described the incident as a “brazen ambush” and stated police believe the attack was targeted. “We believe, at this point in time, that it’s definitely a targeted attack. There is no ongoing threat to the community,” he said.
Investigation and Potential Links to Organised Crime
Bankstown detectives are investigating and have established crime scenes at both locations. While Superintendent Hart noted Utai has a limited criminal record consisting of traffic violations, investigators are exploring potential links to organised crime through his associates and family.
Australian media reports suggest Utai’s son may have connections to the Alameddine crime family, currently involved in an internal feud that has led to a series of shootings in Sydney.
Utai’s Rugby League Career
Utai enjoyed a successful rugby league career, playing 127 NRL games for the Canterbury Bulldogs between 2002 and 2009, and 40 games for the West Tigers between 2011 and 2013. He was a key member of the Bulldogs’ 2004 premiership-winning team, scoring two tries in the grand final against the Sydney Roosters.
He also represented New Zealand on four occasions between 2002 and 2005, all matches against Australia, and played three times for Samoa.
FAQ
Was Matt Utai involved in criminal activity?
Police have stated that, at this stage, Utai has no criminal record aside from traffic violations, but are investigating potential links to organised crime through his associates and family.
What is the current condition of Matt Utai?
Matt Utai is in a serious condition in hospital and has undergone surgery for gunshot wounds to his shoulder and leg.
Is the public at risk following this shooting?
Police have stated there is no ongoing threat to the community.
Where did Matt Utai play his NRL career?
Matt Utai played for the Canterbury Bulldogs and the West Tigers.
Did Matt Utai represent his country?
Yes, Matt Utai represented both New Zealand and Samoa in international rugby league.
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