The family of a young man who lost his fight for life a week after he was allegedly attacked paid an emotional tribute to the 22-year-old as his accused attacker was released on bail.
Cameron Duce was allegedly punched by Austin Lewis Blaney Ballard, 18, at The Esplanade in Burleigh Heads on queensland‘s Gold Coast in the early hours of September 22 while walking home after a night out with friends.
He was rushed to Gold Coast University Hospital, where doctors spent seven days trying to save his life before he finally succumbed to his serious head injuries on Saturday.
Fighting back tears, Chris Duce thanked the medical ‘heroes’ who tried to save his son as he gave an emotional public speech on Tuesday, flanked by his distraught loved ones.
‘Cameron was a loving, caring, thoughtful and fun young man. “A beloved son, brother, uncle, grandson, nephew and cousin,” Mr. Duce said.
‘He also had a very large group of close colleagues, friends and family who wanted the best possible outcome for him.
“He did absolutely nothing to deserve this.”
Duce said a wide circle of family and friends surrounded Cameron at his hospital bed in his final days.
Cameron Duce, 22, died a week after he was allegedly attacked while walking home from a night out with friends.
Cameron’s father Chris Duce (pictured center left) paid an emotional tribute to his son as he was supported by his distraught loved ones.
‘Cameron is an innocent victim in all of this. “A beautiful, caring, thoughtful, loving son, brother, grandson and uncle, taken too soon,” Mr. Duce said through tears.
‘Cameron David Duce, a beautiful baby, son and brother, taken too soon. Forever 22.’
Duce has asked anyone who can help police with their investigation to come forward.
“We know that the police are investigating thoroughly and we are confident that they are using their best efforts to identify, locate and charge the person or persons and anyone else responsible for the actions that caused Cameron’s traumatic and ultimately fatal head injuries. “said Mr. Duce. saying.
Austin Ballard has been charged with Cameron’s death and has been released on bail
‘We also know and accept that this may take some time, so we are prepared to be patient while they do their job.
‘If there is anyone out there with any information, no matter how big or small, now is the time to stand up. Please go to the police.
“We ask that the community remember and remind ourselves that this type of reprehensible behavior is not and should not be tolerated in the community.”
It comes as Ballard left Southport Magistrates Court on Tuesday after bailing on a charge of unlawful striking causing death.
Ballard, who was whisked away by waiting family members, is scheduled to appear in court on Nov. 4.