Police probe gang ties after 19-year-old shot dead at Brisbane pub

Police are investigating potential gang connections in the fatal drive-by shooting of a 19-year-old woman in Brisbane. Vana-Reese Schuster-Togiatau was struck in the head and neck by masked gunmen on Saturday night. The attack occurred outside Fitzy’s Loganholme, a pub in the city’s south.

The victim, a resident of Jimboomba, was taken to the Princess Alexandra hospital. She died on Thursday morning. Three other men, aged 27, 37, and 38, were also hospitalized after the shooting. One man is recovering from surgery, while the other two have been released.

Det Insp Ian Galpin announced the death to reporters on Thursday. He stated that approximately 80 police officers are assigned to the murder investigation. The pub was hosting a boxing event on the night of the attack.

Galpin described the victim’s family as not doing well and asked the public to respect their privacy. He said the family is going through an incredibly difficult time. He urged community members who know who was involved to come forward with information.

The detective said police are keeping an open mind regarding organized crime. He noted that if the investigation identifies gang members or their associates, the scope of the inquiry will expand. He added that the goal is to identify those responsible and take them into custody.

Galpin called the shooting a cowardly act that took the life of a young woman in the prime of her life. He emphasized that the victim was simply out for a night with friends when she was killed.