In short:
A Seabrook man has died after a targeted shooting in Melbourne’s CBD. Police are investigating the fatal attack while his local football club pays tribute.
Friends and teammates mourn footballer killed in early morning city attack.
A 26-year-old Seabrook man shot dead in a targeted CBD attack has been identified as Kwar Ater, a Senior Division ruckman at the Point Cook Centrals.
Police say Ater was gunned down near the intersection of Franklin and Elizabeth streets in Melbourne’s CBD about 4am on 7 September, close to Queen Victoria Market. He was rushed to Royal Melbourne Hospital by associates but later died from his injuries.
Detectives believe the shooting was a deliberate attack and are investigating possible links to ongoing disputes in Melbourne’s underworld. No arrests have been made.
Ater, originally from South Sudan and raised in Melbourne’s west, was previously charged in 2022 with the murder of Kose Kose following a violent brawl outside a CBD nightclub. The victim was previously charged with murder over a stabbing in 2022, but the charge was later withdrawn when he pleaded guilty to affray.
Despite his notoriety, Ater was also known locally as a footballer with the Point Cook Central Sporting Club. The club released a statement expressing deep sadness at his death.
“Kwar was one of a kind , always giving his time to the juniors, lifting his teammates, and bringing warmth and kindness wherever he went. He wasn’t just a great footballer, he was an even better person and a true mate to so many at our club.” the club said. “We are absolutely shattered and he will be deeply missed by every single one of us at Point Cook Centrals. Our love and thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who were lucky enough to know him.”
Homicide Squad detectives continue to appeal for witnesses or anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage from the area to contact Crime Stoppers at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au or call 1800 333 000.
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