29-Year-Old Malaysian Pharmacist Stabbed To Death In His Melbourne Home
The suspect, believed to be suffering from schizophrenia, has been remanded.
A Malaysian pharmacist was allegedly stabbed to death at his home in Melbourne, Australia, by a man believed to be suffering from schizophrenia, on Wednesday, 23 October
According to Australia's 7 News, Kum Chuan Leong, 29, was found dead by a colleague at around 11:30am in his Bellfield home after he failed to turn up for work.
Leong had bought and moved into his home six months ago.
He had been working at public health services company, Eastern Health, since 2021.
A 54-year-old homeless man, alleged to be connected with the case, was detained and charged in court following Leong's murder
The suspect, Simon Hunter, appeared at the Melbourne magistrate's court via video link from his cell at the Heidelberg police station.
Hunter was deemed unfit for a police interview, and concerns were raised about his behaviour since he was detained.
During the court proceedings via video link, the suspect removed his clothes before Magistrate Tara Hartnett, which led him to be moved into a room for better communication.
The hearing was delayed as the man reappeared and spoke incoherently.
Georgie Karyela, his lawyer, informed the court that he suffers from schizophrenia and had not taken his medication for two weeks.
Image via 7 NEWS
Eastern Health chief executive officer David Plunkett expressed deep sorrow over Leong’s tragic death, remembering him as a generous individual
"It is with great sadness that Eastern Health acknowledge the shocking death of our friend and colleague Kum Chuan 'KC' Leong," Plunkett told the Australian media.
Plunkett described Leong as a talented leader and mentor, admired for his passion, kindness, and dedication.
"KC was just 29 years old, and this tragedy will be felt by many. Given the sensitive nature of this matter, we ask you to respect the privacy of his family, friends and colleagues at this time," he said.
It was reported that Leong's family from Malaysia arrived in Melbourne on Thursday, 24 October, but did not attend the court hearing
Hunter has been remanded and is set to return to court on 16 January 2025.
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