Shooting probe urged
November 20, 2007

Police chief Christine Nixon has been urged to reopen an investigation into an unsolved murder attempt.

Former music promoter Michael Trkulja was shot in the back by a hitman wearing a balaclava while dining at a St Albans restaurant in June 2004.

The would-be killer fled after his pistol jammed as he prepared to fire a second shot at Mr Trkulja, who had been enjoying a Sunday lunch with his elderly mother.

A Victoria Police document reveals detectives dropped the investigation because of a lack of evidence.

But Mr Trkulja, 58, claims he now knows the identity of the hitman and those who hired him.

He says he has passed the names to police.

"He (the hitman) was offered $10,000 to kill me. I know who sent him and they know that I know who they are," Mr Trkulja told the Herald Sun.

"I've told the police. I just want justice.

"Nobody should be shot like this."

Mr Trkulja's lawyer, high-profile solicitor George Defteros, has written to Ms Nixon seeking a fresh investigation and the request is being considered.