Paul Griffin: Highly-respected businessman, Hills District community member dies after alleged one-punch attack
The daughter of prominent Hills District community member Paul Griffin has shared a heartwarming tribute to her father after he died from an alleged one-punch attack. It comes as the suspect’s charges were upgraded.
Police & Courts
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Charges against a man accused of a one-punch attack have been upgraded, after a much-loved father died as a result of his injuries.
Paul Griffin, 55, died on Thursday, after he was allegedly assaulted by Terekia Singapu while enjoying post-Melbourne Cup festivities with friends at the Ettamogah Pub in Kellyville Ridge on Tuesday night.
Singapu, who is also known as Huo Kiri, was charged with inflicting grievous bodily harm along with cultivating a prohibited plant.
He was refused bail on Thursday, however, police upgraded his charges on Friday afternoon following Mr Griffin’s death. He is now facing one count of assault occasioning death.
On Friday, Mr Griffin’s daughter Dana made a touching tribute to her dad.
“Not just our father but our best mate,” she wrote on Instagram.
“Dad, you have given our family the most incredible life. We love you beyond words and you will be sorely missed. Time to go save some other lives now.”
Cruiserweight boxing world champion Jai Opetaia also shared a video on Instagram of an interview with Paul Griffin, 55, saying how he financially supported the IBF and Ring champion during his Olympic campaign more than a decade ago.
“This week we lost someone very special to our team/family,” Mr Opetaia said.
“Griffo has been a real day one and has been on this journey since I was a young boy and has always had my back through it ... we love you Griffo and will miss you.”
Alexandra Julie said he was “a leader and the life of the party”.
“Only a few words to describe who my wonderful uncle Paul is,” Ms Julie said.
“He had a smile that would light up a room and a laugh that was infectious to the point of tears. He was taken from the world too soon, but will never be forgotten and will live on forever.”
The sentiment continued with Fran Bradford describing Mr Griffin as a “larger-than-life spirit (who) touched the hearts of everyone who knew him”.
“In the midst of our grief, we are reminded of the joy and warmth and incredible stories Griffo shared with us all,” Ms Bradford said.
“He was someone who could always be counted on for a good time, a good laugh, and a good heart.”
Mr Griffin was instrumental in a number of sporting spaces, not just in boxing, but also in rugby league with the Hills Bulls and other clubs.
“Today I remember a great teammate and friend from my rugby league days at the North Sydney Bears,” Paul Collins said.
“Sharing this team photo brings back memories of the strength, determination, and camaraderie he brought to the field.”
More to come.
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