A Sydney boxer is in critical condition after a late-night shooting that police believe was targeted.
Humzah Khalid, 26, sat in a car with a 30-year-old friend when several shots were fired on Campbell Hill Road in Chester Hill. Khalid (7-0, 5 KOs), known in the ring as “The Raging Bull,” suffered life-threatening injuries.
Witnesses told police that a black ute sped away from the scene. Officers believe two men carried out the shooting. They reportedly wore black clothing and ski masks and used a handgun.
Both vehicles left before police arrived. However, Khalid’s friend quickly drove him to Auburn Hospital. Officers later found a Mercedes riddled with bullet holes in the hospital parking lot.
Investigators say the attack had all the earmarks of a hit.
Soon after their arrival, the situation escalated inside the hospital. Khalid’s friend allegedly assaulted NSW Police Chief Inspector Adam Phillips. The officer had come to assist and begin the investigation.
Detective Superintendent Rod Hart said the attack on the officer was unprovoked. He alleged the man punched the chief inspector several times in the head. Despite the chaos, Phillips managed to carry out the arrest with help from hospital staff.
As a result, the officer suffered a cut to his head. Hart described the act as cowardly. Meanwhile, the 30-year-old appeared in Burwood Local Court, where he pleaded guilty.
His defence lawyer argued that the man was not thinking clearly. He had just witnessed Khalid being shot at close range. Still, police confirmed he will face legal consequences.
Khalid remains in hospital in critical condition. Authorities say both men are known to police. Hart added that investigators believe they are associates.
Police have linked the boxer Khalid to organized crime circles. Hart said the evidence strongly
