Alleged one-punch attacker charged by police as victim identified after attack on Kellyville Ridge pub

Paul Griffin, 55, was with friends at the Ettamogah Pub in Kellyville Ridge on Tuesday evening when he was allegedly attacked by another man around 8pm.

Upon arrival, police were told a man had punched Mr. Griffin before leaving the scene.

Mr Griffin was treated at the scene by paramedics before being taken to Westmead Hospital with serious injuries, where he continues to fight for his life.

The alleged attacker, a 43-year-old man, was arrested on Wednesday morning at a house in Glendenning, about 12km south-west of the pub.

During a search of a property in Plumpton, police are said to have discovered 36 cannabis plants and a hydroponic setup. Officers have seized a number of items for forensic examination.

The 43-year-old was taken to Riverstone police station where he was charged with reckless grievous bodily harm and growing prohibited plants.

He will appear in Blacktown Local Court later on Thursday after being refused bail.

It was previously reported that the two knew each other, but police now claim that the two men did not know each other.

Mr Griffin was described as “a towering figure who supports sport and local business” in the Hills District, with 2GB’s Ray Hadley revealing on Wednesday that he was in a “very serious” condition following the attack.

The 55-year-old is a senior football coordinator for the Hills Bulls Rugby League Club.

He was honored for his contribution to sport and recreation at local community awards this year, The Daily Telegraph reported.

Friends of the man have reached out through his social media with hopes of recovery.

“Sending my prayers to you, Paul and your family, for a quick and full recovery,” one person wrote.

“Paul, please move on. The news is terrible. Every news channel. You are so loved by so many. I can’t imagine what your family is going through. The funniest, cheerful man,” said another.