Homicide Squad detectives are continuing to appeal for public information into the cowardly murder of an 86-year-old man one year on from his brutal bashing death in Sydney’s north-west.
Police say that just before 12.30am on Wednesday, April 29, 2020, emergency services were called to a home on Tallowwood Avenue, Cherrybrook, following reports two men had forced entry to the home.
“Police attended and located the occupants, an 86-year-old man and 84-year-old woman, with serious head injuries,” NSW Police said in a statement.
“They were treated at the scene before being taken to Westmead Hospital where the man, Kalim Saliba, later died.”
Homicide Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent Danny Doherty, said police were continuing to investigate several lines of inquiry to identify those involved.
“Today marks one year since the death of Mr Saliba and police would like to thank the community for their help as investigators continue to work toward providing the Saliba family with answers,” Det Supt Doherty said.
“Two masked men viciously attacked an elderly couple in their home, a place where they have the right to feel safe, resulting in a family losing a loving husband, father and grandfather.
“Someone out there knows something and we are encouraging them to look into their conscience and come forward.”
As police continue their search for answers, the Saliba family appealed for those with information to come forward.
“Our family is devastated and continues to grieve, and we are urging anyone with information to contact police to share what they know, whatever that might be,” Kalim’s son, Joseph Saliba said.
“Dad will be forever cherished by our family as a loving father, grandfather and friend taken from us too soon,” he said.
“We would like to thank the NSW Police for their support and know they will not stop until they find justice for our family.”
Mr Saliba is survived by his three children, his wife Shahida – who thankfully recovered from the cowardly attack – and several grandchildren. The family were reportedly very close and worked together running the family fruit distribution business, Saliba Fruits.
Anyone with information that may assist Strike Force McCleery investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.