Douglas Mikhaeel identified as victim of Deer Park shooting

Douglas Mikhaeel, who has previously been targeted by gunmen, was shot in front of children at a Deer Park level crossing.

The victim of a weekend shooting ambush in Deer Park has been identified as a Melbourne gangland figure. Picture: Brendan Beckett

The victim of a weekend shooting ambush in Deer Park has been identified as a Melbourne gangland figure.

Douglas Mikhaeel, who has previously been targeted by gunmen, has been connected with members of the Notorious Crime Family gang led by jailed underworld strongman George Marrogi.

Police say the 27-year-old was stopped in his car at boom gates at the Deer Park train station level crossing on Mt Derrimut Road when he was ambushed at 9.12pm on Friday.

The assailants opened the driver’s door and shot Mikhaeel at least three times while his 26-year-old partner was in the passenger-side seat and two children, who are not his, were in the back.

Mikhaeel then drove to a nearby hospital for treatment on non life-threatening injuries.

The other occupants of the car were not physically injured.

Police are looking for a motive for the attack, but Mikhaeel is known to have numerous enemies in crime circles.

In 2021, Mikhaeel had allegedly bashed and glassed several men at the notorious Love Machine nightclub.

Hours later, Mikhaeel was at the north suburban home of NCF tough guy Jimmey Barkho when shooters peppered the property with gunfire.

In 2017, Mikhaeel also pleaded guilty to weapons offences after being caught with a handgun and ammunition, according to court records.

Detective Superintendent Jason Kelly said “Any use of a firearm is incredibly concerning for Victoria Police, no matter the circumstance, but particularly where young children are present.”

“We do believe this incident was targeted, however it would have been incredibly frightening for the other people in the car and had the potential to impact other innocent parties,” Supt Kelly said.

“We have a significant investigation into the incident underway and are keen to speak to anyone who has information about the shooting.

“Investigators know there were a number of other cars stationary at the crossing when the shooting occurred, so police are keen to speak to anyone who was in those vehicles at the time, as well as anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage.”

Police are also appealing for anyone who may have CCTV or dashcam footage of the incident to come forward.