Prominent Sydney businessman Paul Griffin dies after alleged one-punch attack
A prominent Sydney businessman has died after an alleged assault in a pub.
Paul Griffin, 55, was drinking with friends at the Ettamogah Pub in Kellyville Ridge in Sydney’s northwest on Tuesday night after the Melbourne Cup when he was allegedly attacked shortly before 8pm.
He was taken to hospital in critical condition but eventually succumbed to his injuries on Friday morning Daily Telegraph.
The morning after the alleged attack, police arrested Terekia Singapu, also known as Huo Kiri, at a property about 12km south-west of the pub.
“Following a search of a property in Plumpton, police reportedly found 36 cannabis plants and a hydroponic setup,” a NSW Police spokesperson said.
‘Officers also found and seized a number of items for forensic examination.’
Singapu, 43, was charged with reckless grievous bodily harm and growing prohibited plants.
The police assume that the two men did not know each other.
Paul Griffin, 55, was drinking with friends at the Ettamogah Pub in Kellyville Ridge after the Melbourne Cup on Tuesday night when he was allegedly attacked shortly before 8pm (Pictured: Mr Griffin with his daughter Dana)
He was taken to hospital in critical condition but eventually succumbed to his injuries on Friday morning
Singapu has not applied for bail and will remain in custody until his next court appearance.
Tributes poured in for Mr Griffin, who was remembered as a successful businessman and a generous benefactor of various sports and local businesses.
His daughter, bodybuilder Dana Griffin, shared a heartbreaking tribute on Instagram
“Not only our father, but also our best friend,” she wrote.
“Dad, you have given our family the most incredible life. We love you more than words and you will be greatly missed. Time to save a few more lives.’
Terekia Singapu (pictured), 43, was charged with reckless grievous bodily harm and growing prohibited plants
World cruiserweight boxing champion Jai Opetaia also shared a video on Instagram of an interview with Mr Griffin in which he described how he had followed and supported his career since childhood.
“This week we lost someone very special to our team/family,” Mr. Opetaia wrote in the caption.
“Griffo was a real first day and has been on this journey since I was a young boy and has always supported it.
‘Thank you for everything, so many wonderful memories with you. We love you Griffo and will miss you.’