Concerns for revenge after mafia shooting
There are concerns for potential revenge attacks after the fatal shooting of a man with links to Calabrian mafia figures.
Fruiterer John Latorre was shot multiple times as he was leaving his Buchanan Place property in Greenvale, in Melbourne’s northwest, around 4.30am Tuesday.
The 64-year-old is believed to be the victim of a “targeted attack”, according to Victoria Police.
“As he came out of his garage, he was shot a number of times in the upper body by an unknown offender,” the statement read.
Sergeant Danny Travaglini earlier told media police would be prepared for potential retaliation, while noting he can’t confirm if there are links to organised crime.
“If there are links to organised crime there is also the potential for retaliation and that’s where Victoria Police approach such investigations as a high priority,” Sergeant Travaglini said.
“We will do whatever we possibly can to ensure there’s no retaliation … and we’ll be proactively targeting organised crime if it is to ensure no retaliation occurs.”
Mr Latorre was known to visit friend and international drug trafficker Frank Madafferi, according to the Herald Sun, however Mr Latorre did not have a major criminal record.
He ran a successful fruit and vegetable business at the Melbourne Market in Epping, and was leaving for work when he was gunned down.
He was found dead outside his home on Tuesday morning by a family member, and was unable to be revived by paramedics.
Two female family members were home at the time but weren’t injured, however a woman was later treated for shock and taken in an ambulance.
Police said they’re unsure how many offenders were involved in the incident or how they left the area, but earlier said they don’t believe it was a drive-by shooting.
“I believe a family member heard what had occurred outside and found the deceased in the driveway,” Sergeant Travaglini said.
“Obviously we’ve spoken to them, they’re quite distraught.”
No arrests have been made at this stage.
Police have collected CCTV footage but are urging anyone with footage to come forward.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
