Alleged victim revealed, man charged as man fights for life following one-punch assault at The Ettamogah Pub in Kellyville Ridge
A highly-respected businessman is fighting for life after he was the alleged victim of a one-punch assault at a pub on Tuesday night. Police have charged a 43-year-old man.
Police & Courts
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A man has been charged after a highly-respected businessman and member of the Hills District was left fighting for his life, after allegedly copping a one-punch to the head.
On Tuesday night, Paul Griffin, 55, was enjoying post Melbourne Cup festivities with friends at the Ettamogah Pub in Kellyville Ridge, when he was allegedly assaulted by another man, just before 8pm.
Mr Griffin remains in a critical condition in hospital, police said.
The alleged attacker, 43, was arrested on Wednesday morning at a home in Glendenning, and was later charged by police.
“Following a search of a property in Plumpton, police allegedly located 36 cannabis plants and a hydroponic setup,” NSW Police said in a statement.
“Officers also located and seized a number of items for forensic testing.
“The man was taken to Riverstone Police Station and charged with reckless grievous bodily harm and cultivate prohibited plant.”
The man has been refused bail and will appear before Blacktown Local Court on Thursday.
A staff member at the business Mr Griffin owns and operates — Griffin Air Conditioning — said they were waiting to hear more about his situation.
“We don’t know what’s happening, but we have no comment to make,” the woman said.
Radio host Ray Hadley told 2GB listeners the alleged victim is “a colossal person supporting sport and local business” in the Hills District and is in a “very grave” condition.
Mr Griffin is the senior football co-ordinator for the Hills Bulls Rugby League Club, and a sponsor of the club.
In local community awards this year, Mr Griffin was commended for his contribution to sport and recreation.
Mr Griffin’s daughter is understood to be a NSW Police officer in Sydney.
ARREST
The 43-year-old man assisting police inquiries was arrested at a Glendenning home about 9.15am Wednesday.
Police were called to The Ettamogah Pub on Merriville Rd in Kellyville Ridge shortly before 8pm following reports of an assault.
Officers were told a man had punched the 55-year-old before fleeing the scene.
On Wednesday morning there was limited activity at the scene. However, a NSW Police detective was seen entering the pub about 9.30am.
Investigations into the incident at the Ettamogah Pub are ongoing and NSW Police will allege the two men weren’t known to each other.
As inquiries continue, authorities urge anyone with information to contact police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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