Two individuals — a 25-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy — have been charged over the brazen shooting of former National Rugby League player Matt Utai outside his home in Greenacre earlier this week.
Police allege the older man was the driver of the vehicle involved in the attack, while the teenage boy is accused of being the gunman. The pair were arrested following an intensive investigation led by the NSW Police Force, which included CCTV analysis, forensic examination, and witness interviews.
Utai, a former winger for the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and the Wests Tigers, was reportedly shot multiple times on Tuesday morning as he was leaving for work. Emergency services responded swiftly after receiving reports of gunfire in the residential street. He was treated at the scene before being transported to hospital, where he underwent urgent medical care.
Authorities have since confirmed that Utai is now in a stable condition. While details about the extent of his injuries have not been fully disclosed, investigators indicated that his survival is being viewed as fortunate given the severity of the attack.
Detectives are continuing to examine the motive behind the shooting. At this stage, police have not publicly stated whether the incident was targeted or linked to broader criminal activity, but they have described it as a serious and deliberate act of violence.Officers have also not ruled out the possibility that others may have been involved. The 25-year-old suspect is expected to face multiple charges, including firearm-related offences and participation in a criminal group. Due to his age, the 15-year-old will be dealt with under youth justice procedures, though the charges are understood to be similarly serious in nature.
The shooting has shocked both the local community and the rugby league world. Utai, known for his powerful runs and strong performances during his NRL career, remains a well-recognized figure among fans. Neighbours described the early-morning violence as terrifying, with several reporting hearing rapid gunshots before seeing emergency vehicles flood the street.
As the case moves through the courts, police say they are focused on ensuring accountability and determining the full circumstances that led to the attack. For now, attention remains on Utai’s recovery — and the ongoing investigation into a shooting that has rattled a Sydney suburb.