An innocent pedestrian came within centimetres of being struck by speeding hitmen moments after a gangland execution in Melbourne's inner city. Police are urgently appealing for public assistance following the fatal shooting of former professional boxer Hussein Dehaini shortly after midnight on Sunday.
Dramatic footage shows close call
Dramatic security footage captures the shooters fleeing the scene in a white Mercedes, nearly hitting a pedestrian as the 33-year-old Dehaini fought for his life. Dehaini had just exited his vehicle when a gunman approached and opened fire.
“Shots were fired and shots continued to be fired,” Detective Inspector Dean Thomas of the Homicide Squad said. “So I’m very comfortable that that was a targeted attack.”
Victim collapses outside apartment
After staggering around a corner, Dehaini collapsed outside his apartment building. Two bystanders found him, but he died en route to hospital. Thomas noted Dehaini's criminal associations: “He is associated with a number of serious organised crime groups. Outlaw motorcycle gangs and Middle Eastern organised crime. We believe that he may be involved in standing over people.”
Local cafe remembers a different side
However, a local cafe owner offered a contrasting view of the victim. “He’d come and have lunch with his group of friends,” Maria Tuminello said. “Always, ‘hi Maria, how are you going? Can I have my risotto today?’ Sure, no worries, you know. So he was a good friend in the end.”
Police reveal bail status and search for vehicle
Police disclosed that Dehaini was on bail and scheduled to appear in court soon. His links to bikie gangs and organised crime complicate the investigation. “We’re speaking to family, we’re speaking to associates,” Thomas said. The white Mercedes remains outstanding, and police are desperate for the public’s help to locate it. “If they did see the vehicle, please share that information with police,” Thomas added.
