Robert Mantini sentenced for fatal shooting over speeding fines

Robert Mantini, 61, has been sentenced to 13 years and six months in prison by the Victorian Supreme Court after pleading guilty to homicide by firearm. The sentencing follows the death of Adrian Romeo, 42, who disappeared in Melbourne’s north in February 2024.

The incident occurred during an argument regarding unpaid speeding fines totaling more than $534. Mantini, a former friend of Romeo, accidentally shot him in the back with a shotgun while Romeo was attempting to leave Mantini's home in Greenvale. Following the discharge, Mantini and his son moved Romeo’s body to a vehicle.

Justice Kerri Judd noted that Mantini should have known the firearm contained ammunition, as he had discharged it just thirty minutes prior to the fatal incident. Romeo’s remains were discovered on a farming property in Wildwood approximately ten months after his disappearance.