Police release CCTV to help solve Deer Park level crossing shooting

Drivers parked at the Deer Park level crossing when two gunmen opened fire on a gangland figure could hold the key to bringing the shooters to justice.

Detectives hunting those behind the shooting ambush of gangland figure Douglas Mikhaeel have released CCTV of vehicles at the scene.

Mikhaeel, 27, was shot by gunmen who pounced as he was stopped at level crossing boom gates at Deer Park railway station, in Melbourne’s western suburbs, on January 20.

Armed crime squad investigators say he was waiting in his black Toyota Hilux in the northbound lane at 9.12pm when several men moved towards his car.

They opened the driver’s side door and shot him in the lower body.

A 26-year-old woman and two children were in the vehicle as the bullets flew on Mt Derrimut Rd.

They were uninjured but Mikhaeel drove to hospital for treatment of his wounds.

Police say other vehicles were stopped at the crossing and they are keen to speak to those who were on board them.

Footage of vehicles at scene of Douglas Mikhaeel shooting in Deer Park.

They are particularly interested in hearing from people who were in a white car closest to the Hilux.

Detective acting Insp. Chris Ellway said the presence of children made the ambush of particular concern.

“Such a reckless use of firearms has left one man with potentially life changing injuries,” Insp. Ellway said.

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

Mikhaeel has previously been linked to members of the northern suburbs-based Notorious Crime Family gang.

NCF was formed several years ago by gangland strongman George Marrogi, who is in jail over the execution-style murder of Kadir Ors at Campbellfield in 2016.

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

Later that night, Mikhaeel was at the north suburban home of NCF tough guy Jimmey Barkho when a gunman opened fire in a drive-by attack.

Anyone with information on the Deer Park shooting or who has dashcam footage can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit the website crimestoppersvic.com.au.