PORT STEPHENS SHOOTING, KILLING TANILBA BAY MAN DAVID KING, A “TARGETED ATTACK”

Police have identified the man who was shot dead at Port Stephens on Sunday as David King.

The 45-year-old was gunned down, behind the wheel of a white Ford Ranger utility on Hideaway Drive at Salt Ash just before 2pm.

The car crashed – and Mr. King died at the scene.

According to police, the gunman was picked up in a white Hyundai Santa Fe – and left the scene.

The same model and colour car was found burnt-out nearby at Masonite Road in Heatherbrae.

Police are now investigating whether the car is linked to the shooting.

Detectives say they’re treating the fatal shooting as a “targeted attack” and Strike Force Breve has been set up to investigate the circumstances surrounding the Mr King’s death.

“We can’t confirm definitively how many people were in the car at the time of the collision, and that’s one thing our investigators are now working through,” said Supt. Chad Gillies.

While the motive for the shooting is still unknown, Mr. King is known to police.

As inquiries continue, strike force detectives are appealing for anyone who may have seen a white Ford Ranger utility or a white Hyundai Santa Fe in the Salt Ash, Raymond Terrace and Heatherbrae areas between 8am and 3pm on Sunday, or who may have dashcam footage, to contact Raymond Terrace Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.