A popular rugby league player has been identified as the man killed in a stabbing outside a fast-food restaurant in Marrickville.
Sitaleki Filihiahekava, 32, was fatally stabbed to death outside the Guzman y Gomez store in Marrickville, in Sydney’s inner-west at about 7.40pm on Monday, after having dinner with his family.
Police and distressed family members rushed to the scene, where first aid was provided, but the man was unable to be saved.
Witnesses heard the ‘heartbreaking’ cries of the man’s mother, while his brother rushed to lift the sheet covering the body.
It’s understood he and his attacker met outside the restaurant before he was stabbed, with his killer still on the run.
Bouquets of flowers, handwritten notes and a lit candle were left outside the front of the Mexican restaurant on Tuesday, as Mr Filihiahekava’s loved ones struggle to come to terms with his loss.
Many were seen in tears and consoling each other as they stood on the same spot where their mate lost his life.
This is a breaking story. More to come.