A 23-year-old university student has been shot dead during a home invasion in Sydney’s south-west, with police investigating whether the attackers went to the wrong house or mistook him for someone else.
Marco Tapia was in bed when intruders entered his family’s home on Mount Sugarloaf Drive in Glen Alpine at about 3.40am on Tuesday, 1 September. He was shot multiple times and died at the scene.
NSW Police said officers from Campbelltown City Police Area Command found the injured man inside the property after emergency services were called. Detectives from the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad are assisting with the investigation. ([nationaltribune.com.au](https://www.nationaltribune.com.au/investigation-underway-after-a-man-fatally-shot-during-a-home-invasion-glen-alpine/?utm_source=openai))
Several members of Mr Tapia’s family were at home during the attack. The offenders had fled before police arrived, and a crime scene was established as investigators began searching for evidence.
Police believe the shooting was targeted, but are examining whether it was a case of mistaken identity. Mr Tapia, a biomedical engineering student at the University of Technology Sydney and a volunteer with Engineers Without Borders, was known to authorities only over a traffic offence and had no known links to organised crime.
An Instagram account allegedly linked to the Coconut Cartel appeared to refer to the killing shortly afterwards, stating: “Popped the wrong person. Didn’t even get the right house.” Acting Superintendent Gretchin Atkins said police were aware of the posts and that “everything is under consideration”, but no connection between the account and the shooting has been established.
Neighbours told 7NEWS they had seen two suspicious cars in the area on Monday. Police are appealing for anyone who saw unusual activity, vehicles or people near Mount Sugarloaf Drive to come forward.
NSW Acting Premier Prue Car described the incident as tragic and said the investigation should be allowed to proceed. Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane said the shooting showed that gang violence was “out of control” in Sydney, although police have not confirmed a gang-related motive.
A report will be prepared for the coroner. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. ([nationaltribune.com.au](https://www.nationaltribune.com.au/investigation-underway-after-a-man-fatally-shot-during-a-home-invasion-glen-alpine/?utm_source=openai))
