Nearly 100 friends, family and community members have gathered at a dawn vigil to pay their respects to a local fisherman and father of three who was allegedly stabbed to death in a random attack.
Andres Pancha, 45, was fishing at Frankston Pier when he was allegedly attacked by homeless man Forrest Stevenson, 36, shortly after 6am on June 29.
Police say Pancha did not know her alleged attacker, who has since been charged with murder.
Local residents and Mr Pancha’s family gathered at the same pier for an early morning vigil on Saturday.
“We are all brothers of Andrés, we want to thank all those who came, those who sent condolences, those who showed respect to my brother, those who offered prayers and support,” said Mr. Pancha’s sisters.
“All your love and support really helps ease the family’s pain.”
Federal Member for Dunkley Jodie Belyea was also at the vigil where Jeff Buckley’s Hallelujah was played.
A wreath was laid for Mr Pancha at the end of the pier, while his loved ones and fellow fishermen, holding rods, wiped away tears as they braved the freezing conditions.
Vigil held at dawn for alleged murder of fisherman Andrés Pancha
Andres Pancha, 45 (pictured with his family) was fishing at Frankston Pier when he was allegedly attacked by homeless man Forrest Stevenson, 36, shortly after 6am on June 29.
Mr Pancha’s loved ones earlier said he would be remembered for his passion for fishing and his kind and gentle nature in a post on GoFundMe.
“It is with deep sorrow and great regret in our hearts that we announce the tragic passing of our beloved friend, brother, father, husband and cousin, Andrés,” the post reads.
‘He was (allegedly) senselessly attacked by an unknown assailant while doing something he loved – fishing. This (allegedly) unimaginable act has left our family devastated and deeply grieving. His absence leaves an irreplaceable void in our lives.
‘In honor of Andrés’ memory, we ask that you keep his spirit alive by cherishing his loved ones and spreading kindness wherever you go.’
Stevenson was arrested on a nearby beach shortly after the alleged attack and Pancha was found unconscious on the pier.
Nearly 100 people gathered for the vigil early Saturday morning.
Flowers were left for the beloved father of three.
Filipino father of three Andres Pancha, 45, was remembered at a dawn vigil on Saturday.
The father of three was allegedly murdered last weekend
Police said the men did not know each other.
Mr Pancha visited the fishing spot in south-east Victoria once or twice a week.
His friend and former colleague Lee Seddon took to social media to pay tribute to the beloved fisherman.
“I had the pleasure of working and sailing with Andres Pancha on the Iron Chieftain. He was a true gentleman. He loved fishing and his young family,” he said.
“It is very shocking to know that he was taken away so young and in such a terrible way.
‘Favourable winds and calm sea.’
Another friend said he had recently spoken to Mr. Pancha.
“You’re still young and you’re gone. Rest in peace Andrés Pancha. We will miss you,” Cor Glover said.
Forrest Stevenson, 36, of no fixed address, promotes himself on social media as an amateur artist who tattoos his own body. He has been charged with murder.
Stevenson has no fixed address and promotes himself on social media as an amateur artist who tattoos his own body.
He appeared in Melbourne Magistrates Court last Sunday wearing a disposable face mask and a black T-shirt.
Homicide squad detective constable Kate Lynch told the court police needed 12 weeks to compile a summary of evidence.
The process normally takes six weeks, but the court was told an extension was needed to complete pathology reports and DNA testing.
Stevenson was remanded in custody until November 6.
Magistrate Marc Sargent told the court the defendant needed immediate medical attention to make his time in custody “more comfortable”.
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