A beloved father-of-three who was allegedly’ stabbed to death on a pier has been remembered as a ‘kind and gentle soul’ by loved ones.
Andres Pancha, 45, was fishing on Frankston Pier when he was allegedly attacked by homeless man Forrest Stevenson, 36, just after 6am on Saturday.
Police say the father-of-three did not know his alleged attacker.
Mr Pancha’s loved ones 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 heavy hearts that we announce the tragic passing of our beloved friend, brother, Daddy, husband and cousin, Andres,’ it read.
‘He was senselessly attacked by an unknown assailant while doing something he loved – fishing. This unimaginable act has left our family devastated and in profound grief. His absence leaves an irreplaceable void in our lives.
‘In honor of Andres’ memory, we ask that you keep his spirit alive by cherishing your loved ones and spreading kindness wherever you go.’
Mr Stevenson was arrested on the nearby foreshore a short time after the alleged attack with Mr Pancha found unresponsive on the pier.
Police said the men were not known to each other.
Mr Pancha visited the fishing spot in Victoria’s southeast once or twice a week.
His friend and former colleague Lee Seddon, took to social media to pay tribute to the beloved fisherman.
‘Had the pleasure to work and sail with Andres Pancha on the Iron Chieftain. He was a true gentleman. Loved his fishing and young family,’ he said.
‘So shocking to hear he has been taken so young and in this terrible way.
‘Fair winds and smooth seas.’
Another friend said he had only recently spoken with Mr Pancha, ‘now nothing’.
‘Still young and already gone, RIP Andres Pancha. We will miss you,’ Cor Glover said.
Stevenson, 36, is of no fixed address and promotes himself on social media as an amateur artist who tattoos his own body
Stevenson is of no fixed address and promotes himself on social media as an amateur artist who tattoos his own body.
He appeared at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Sunday wearing a disposable face mask and black t-shirt.
Homicide Squad detective senior constable Kate Lynch told the court police required 12 weeks to compile a brief of evidence.
The process usually takes six weeks, but the court was told an extension was needed for pathology and DNA test reports to be completed.
Stevenson was remanded in custody until November 6.
Magistrate Marc Sargent told the court the accused needed prompt medical attention to make his custody ‘stay more comfortable’.