Six teenagers arrested after pizza shop owner fatally stabbed in Sydney

The owner of a pizza shop in western Sydney has been identified as the victim of a fatal stabbing that occurred outside his store last night. The deceased has been identified as 58-year-old Sonmez Alagoz. Homicide detectives are investigating the case under the command of "Strike Force Narilla."

Police stated that Alagoz was found just after 10 p.m. on the Great Western Highway near Kingswood with a stab wound to his chest, near his "Pizza Station" shop. Emergency services treated Alagoz at the scene before he was transported to Westmead Hospital, where he unfortunately passed away at approximately 12:30 a.m. today.

New South Wales Police Superintendent Trent King told the media that police have arrested six teenagers, including four boys and two girls, from residences in Werrington, South Penrith, and Penrith. The six teenagers are currently in custody and are being questioned about the case, including two girls aged 13 and 16, and three boys aged 15, 15, and 17; in addition, a 19-year-old man has also been arrested. A 15-year-old boy was later arrested at St Marys Police Station. Police stated that all six teenagers have prior criminal records.

Superintendent King stated that the pizza shop owner was well-known in the local community and described the incident as a "tragedy." "The scene was confronting for emergency services, he suffered terrible injuries and needed immediate assistance," Superintendent King said. "This gentleman was very closely connected to this community, including operating this business for over 14 years. This is an absolute tragedy, there is no other way to describe it."

Local residents told 9News that Mr. Alagoz was a "lovely" man who always greeted customers with a smile. It is understood that he was working alone in the shop at the time of the incident. Superintendent King stated that the deceased's family has been notified and are "devastated." He added that the teenagers are cooperating with police investigations, and police have not ruled out any motives. Police have not yet confirmed whether the weapon has been found. "This is a tragedy we cannot ignore," Superintendent King added. A crime scene has been established, and detectives from Nepean Police Area Command, assisted by the Homicide Squad of the State Crime Command, have commenced an investigation. Police are appealing to anyone with information, CCTV footage, or dashcam footage to contact St Marys Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or provide information online.