Teenager Charged with Murder Over Alleged Drone Surveillance in Sydney Underworld Shooting

An 18-year-old man has been charged with murder over his alleged involvement in a fatal underworld shooting in Western Sydney last week.

The teenager is accused of providing drone surveillance during the mistaken identity attack that killed Joshua Macdonald, a 40-year-old tradie, in Merrylands West on September 2.

Arrest and Charges

The 18-year-old was arrested in West Hoxton on Friday by the Raptor Squad and has been charged with murder. Police allegedly seized a drone linked to the man that showed his involvement in the killing.

“The arrest is a significant development in the investigation into the death of Joshua Macdonald,” a police spokesperson said.

Background of the Case

Police sources indicate that the intended target was a member of the notorious Alameddine crime family, who are believed to be operating from Lebanon. The conflict is reportedly linked to a feud between the Alameddine family and the “Coconut Cartel”, a crime network operating in Western Sydney.

This is the seventh mistaken identity fatality linked to the conflict over the past 18 months.

Court Appearance

The 18-year-old was refused bail and is due to appear before a Sydney bail court on Saturday. A 19-year-old man was also arrested and charged with participating in a criminal group and driving with a suspended licence during the operation on Friday.