A $500,000 reward for information regarding the murder of soldier, Paul Summers, more than two decades ago was announced by NSW Police today.
Police say that at around 4am on September 22, 1999, a number of shots were fired into the front of the Gosford Chapter club house of the Rebels outlaw motorcycle gang (OMCG) at Yandina Road, West Gosford.
Three of the bullets struck and killed Paul Summers – then aged 31 – while he was asleep on a lounge inside the club house.
Other members of the Rebels OMCG were inside at the time of the shooting but were uninjured.
It’s understood Mr Summers was a not a member of the Rebels, but was friends with some members who had served with him in the army.
Detectives from the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad established Strike Force Phillack to investigate the circumstances surrounding Mr Summers’ death.
In 2001, a Coronial Inquest found that Mr Summers had been fatally shot by an unknown person or persons.
In 2003, the NSW Government announced a $100,000 reward for information relating to his death.
Despite extensive investigations, no one has been charged in relation to Mr Summers’ death.
As inquiries continue, police are renewing their appeal to the community to come forward with any information that may assist detectives with their investigations.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott said he hoped the increase reward would encourage anyone with information to come forward.
“Mr Summers’ family has spent more than 20 years searching for answers and the NSW Government hopes that the increase in this reward will encourage those who know what happened to Paul to speak up,” Mr Elliott said.
“I would urge anyone who is holding onto information about this case to come forward and assist police, before they come knocking on your door.”
Homicide Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent Danny Doherty said people in the community had information.
“Investigations since 1999 have been hampered by the nature and location of the incident being linked to the outlaw motorcycle gang network,” Det Supt Doherty said.
“We know there are people who haven’t provided police with the whole story. Now, after more than 20 years, it is time for those individuals to come forward.
“As inquiries continue, police have conducted a full review of all evidence obtained during the investigation including all forensic evidence and witness statements,” Det Supt Doherty said.
Paul’s mother, Mrs Robyn Shelley said she hoped the increased reward may bring new leads for investigators to finally provide justice for her son.
“Paul was a much-loved son and brother and an extremely talented musician, who was planning to pursue his dream of starting a full-time music career when his life was cut short,” Mrs Shelley said.
“After more than 20 years of indescribable pain, we are hoping that someone will come forward and help identify those responsible for Paul’s death.
“Our family simply cannot rest until we have the answers that we need to finally see justice served for Paul,” Mrs Shelley said.
