Police believe Shepparton man is connected to ‘violent attack’ that hospitalised victim for months
Shepparton detectives have released a computer-generated image of a man they believe is a local connected to an alleged home invasion last year, which left one man with life-threatening injuries.
Police allege five male offenders of African appearance entered a Sidney Crt, Shepparton, address shortly after 9.20pm on September 2, 2022, and assaulted two male residents.
The residents, both aged 33, were airlifted to the Royal Melbourne Hospital, with one in a coma for five weeks after suffering a life-threatening stab wound to the leg — he remains in hospital with limited function of his left leg.
The other resident received multiple injuries to his head and upper body.
Investigators believe the group of five men involved in the incident ran into nearby Vibert Reserve after leaving the address.
On Thursday, January 19, detectives from Shepparton Crime Investigation Unit released a computer-generated image of a man allegedly seen in the area on the night of the incident.
He is described as being of African appearance, approximately 178cm tall (5ft 10in), aged in his late teens to early 20s, medium build, clean shaven and neatly dressed.
Shepparton CIU Detective Senior Sergeant Paul Shortis said the investigation into the alleged attack had “progressed significantly” thanks to key information received from the public.
“The facial image released today has been generated as a result of this information, leading us to believe this man can assist police with our inquiries,” he said.
“We also believe this man is a Shepparton local — there will be people in our community who know who he is, and we urge them to contact police.
“This attack was pre-meditated and violent, leaving one male fighting for life and the other with serious head and upper body injuries.
“My message to the offenders involved is clear: when you decide to engage in violence such as this, it doesn’t simply go away, and neither will we.
“The net is rapidly closing on you and it will only be a matter of time before we come knocking on your door — if you don’t hand yourself in first.”
Investigators are encouraging anyone with information to contact detectives from the Shepparton CIU on 5820 5777 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au