In a poignant session at the NSW District Court, footage emerged showing the tragic final moments of beloved Sydney security guard, Mousa Al-Zaher. The 30-year-old was attempting to escort a heavily intoxicated patron, Brian Brown, from outside the Royal Hotel in Sutherland when a violent confrontation unfolded. Just moments after the encounter began, Al-Zaher was struck and subsequently collapsed, leading to his untimely death within ten minutes.
Today, Brown, aged 33, received a sentencing of three-and-a-half years for the manslaughter of Al-Zaher, resulting from the altercation that took place in February 2024. Evidence presented in court revealed that Brown had been expelled from the venue at 2 am, only to confront Al-Zaher on the pavement. Despite bystanders trying to intervene, Brown managed to land three punches on Al-Zaher, who attempted to fight back but ultimately could not be revived.
Al-Zaher, a Saudi Arabian student with a pre-existing heart condition, fell victim to a senseless episode of violence. Defence barrister Slade Howell suggested that both men failed to seek a peaceful resolution, contributing to the tragic outcome.
Judge Nicole Norman SC characterised the incident as a “senseless act of violence” that inflicted profound grief on many, highlighting the role of Al-Zaher in his capacity as a security guard. Notably, Brown displayed no recollection of the violent episode and expressed regret over his actions, branding them disgraceful. Having not applied for bail, he has remained in custody for the past 18 months and is now set for potential release in February.
This case underscores the devastating implications of violence, balancing the legal proceedings against the heartfelt loss experienced by Al-Zaher’s family and the community he served.