Kum Chuan “KC” Leong, a 29-year-old pharmacist, was found dead inside his Bellfield, Melbourne townhouse and allegedly stabbed multiple times. The discovery was made around 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, after a friend alerted authorities when Leong failed to show up for work.
The accused, Simon Hunter, 54, with no fixed address, was arrested by a toilet block in a park across from the victim’s home. He is now facing murder charges.
Suspect’s Erratic Court Appearance
Hunter, who was taken into custody appeared in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Thursday via video link. His behavior was described as agitated and incoherent, prompting the court to take extra precautions.
Initially appearing shirtless, he was moved to a secure room following concerns about his conduct, which included disruptive outbursts and erratic claims. His lawyer noted that Hunter, who suffers from schizophrenia, had not taken his medication for two weeks.
The court proceedings revealed that Hunter had a long history of mental health issues. Magistrate Tara Hartnett adjourned the session, ordering the suspect to undergo further DNA testing. Hunter is scheduled to appear in court again in January.
Tragic End for a Respected Pharmacist
Leong, who had recently bought his home in Bellfield, was remembered as a warm and generous member of the Eastern Health team, where he had worked since early 2021. After completing his Master’s in Clinical Pharmacy in July, he earned recognition for his leadership and mentorship abilities.
According to Eastern Health’s Chief Executive David Plunkett, KC Leong was a talented leader whose commitment to the community and the pharmacy team would be deeply missed.
Neighbors Recall Disturbing Sounds
In the hours before Leong’s body was found, neighbors reported hearing a commotion near the townhouse late Tuesday night. According to Daily Mail, one resident stated cries and screams could be heard around 11:30 p.m., lasting for about 10 minutes.
Police were called to the scene, but at the time, they could not access the property, and no further action was taken.
Investigation Ongoing, Motive Still Unclear
Authorities are still piecing together the events that led to Leong’s tragic death. Reports indicate that the young pharmacist had suffered multiple stab wounds, and Hunter was allegedly found with bloodstained clothes and a weapon at the time of his arrest.
As investigations continue, it is believed that the accused and the victim had no prior connection to one another.
Leong’s family, who flew in from Malaysia following the incident (October 24), did not attend the initial court hearing. The loss of Leong has left a deep void in the local community and among his colleagues at Eastern Health.
His dedication to the field of pharmacy and the support he provided to young professionals were widely acknowledged.
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