Man, 44, shot dead in western Sydney

A man has been found dead inside his western Sydney unit after he was shot in the chest in what police are calling a targeted attack.

The 44-year-old man was found by a female resident inside a unit block on Newman Street in Merrylands about 6.30am on Saturday.

Detective Acting Superintendent Tim Calman said the man died from a single bullet wound to the chest.

“It appears at this stage it was not a random attack ... it would look as if it was actually targeted,” he said.

“He was shot to the chest. It’s only a single shot.

“The man is known to police, but only for a minor matter and nothing with obvious links to organised crime or drug-related matters.

“The incident is all contained within the unit.”

Emergency services were called and police and paramedics rushed to the scene, but the man died despite their efforts.

Police have set up a crime scene and started an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. NSW Police’s homicide squad has been called in to investigate.

Anyone who may have information, mobile phone, dashcam or CCTV footage from the surrounding areas is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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