Hunt for shooter who shot cyclist in the head in Victoria

Police are offering a large reward for information about a shooting that occurred in 2017.

On Friday, Victoria Police announced again that they will offer a $500,000 reward to anyone who comes forward with information about the shooting of Kelvin Tennant, then 72 years old.

On February 18, 2017, Mr. Tennant was riding his bicycle along the Myrtleford-Everton Rail Trail when he was shot multiple times.

Police believe the shooter left the scene in a dark-colored sedan, with Mr. Tennant unconscious on the ground.

He was discovered by two bicyclists passing on the bike path with gunshot wounds to the head and chest.

Mr Tennant was then airlifted to The Alfred hospital in a life-threatening condition and survived despite taking months to recover from his injuries.

Six years after the attack, he still has hearing and vision problems due to his injuries.

An investigation by Armed Crime Squad detectives has been conducted since the incident, and police continue to travel to the area to find answers for Mr. Tennant and his family.

However, the police still do not have a clear motive for the attack.

Tennant was shot while riding a bicycle in Victoria six years ago. Image: Victoria Police

The $500,000 reward for information was first announced in 2019 and is still in effect.

Police said the “relatively remote” area where the incident occurred is a popular location for visitors to the Great Alpine Road area and the townships of Myrtleford and Bright.

Police think an interstate tourist in North East Victoria may have seen something, but don’t realize that what they know could be important in the investigation.

The officials are keen to speak to anyone who has been to the area or passed through Everton on the weekend of February 18, 2017.

Acting Detective Sergeant Major Brad Potts said the shooting took place in a tightly closed area and police are hopeful someone has discovered something in connection with the incident.

“Although six years have passed since the shooting occurred, detectives are still willing to speak to anyone who may have information about who was responsible for the shooting and why,” he said.

Kelvin was just enjoying a bike ride on a beautiful country trail when someone tried to kill him, and we’ve never been able to discover any possible motive for this.

Tennant was shot while riding a bicycle in Victoria six years ago. Image: Victoria Police

“He loved the area and he loved riding his bike, and there was no way he would have expected this trip to end like this.

“I know that all of the investigators who have worked on this matter over the years would love to see it resolved, not only to bring justice to Kelvin and his family, but also to uncover the mystery of why this shooting occurred.”

Police said that, in appropriate cases, the Director of Public Prosecutions may consider awarding prosecution damages to anyone who provides information on the identity of the main offender(s).

Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.