Security guard killed after alleged pub assault
A security guard has been killed after an alleged assault the Royal Hotel on East Parade in Sutherland in Sydney’s south.
A 31-year-old man has been charged with assault occasioning death. It is alleged the accused punched the security guard in the head, following an altercation.
The man was previously asked to leave the premises.
Emergency services were called to the venue at about 2am on Sunday. Police performed CPR but couldn’t revive the 30-year-old whose family live overseas.
Tributes flowed in for the man, amid calls for reform in security guard regulations.
“So sad for all involved, a security guard left home to do his job and will never return, thoughts and prayers for the guard’s family, friends and workmates,” one man said on social media.
“A life lost because he was doing his job, from a fellow security Guard, RIP.”
“Been saying this for years venues need to have a minimum of two guards no matter if it’s quiet night or anything else,” another person wrote.
Superintendent Craig Middleton said the assault is under investigation.
“The reason for the altercation is still part of our investigation but I can confirm that the 31-year-old male had been asked to leave the premises previously,” he said.
Middleton called the assault a “tragedy”.
“It’s terrible. The security guard is just going about his business and there are patrons in there having a good time … and the security guard has ended up losing his life,” he said.
“It’s just a tragedy all around. For the families involved, for the people at the hotel, for the emergency services. There are no winners in this situation.”
The assault was captured on CCTV and there are several witnesses.
The victim’s family have been notified of his death.
The Royal Hotel sated: “The Royal Hotel Sutherland is deeply saddened by the tragic events that transpired in the early hours of this morning.
“The entire management and staff of the hotel extend our heartfelt condolences and stand in solidarity with the family during this time.”
Jonathan Jackson, 26th February 2024
