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Vigil held for allegedly murdered fisherman Andres Pancha

Daily Mail Online 2024/10/6

Almost 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 on Frankston Pier when he was allegedly attacked by homeless man Forrest Stevenson, 36, just after 6am on June 29. 

Police say Mr Pancha did not know his alleged attacker who has since been charged with murder.

Local residents and family of Mr Pancha gathered at the same pier for an early morning vigil on Saturday.

'We are all the sibling of Andres, we would like to thank everyone for coming, for those who sent condolences, for those who showed respect to my brother, those who offered prayers and support,' Mr Pancha's sisters said.

'All your love and support really helps ease the pain of the family.'

Federal member for Dunkley, Jodie Belyea, was also at the vigil where Jeff Buckley's Hallelujah played. 

A floral tribute was laid for Mr Pancha at the end of the pier, as loved ones and fellow fishermen holding rods wiped away tears while braving the freezing conditions.

A dawn vigil was held for allegedly murdered fisherman Andres Pancha
A dawn vigil was held for allegedly murdered fisherman Andres Pancha 
Andres Pancha, 45, (pictured with family) was fishing on Frankston Pier when he was allegedly attacked by homeless man Forrest Stevenson, 36, just after 6am on June 29
Andres Pancha, 45, (pictured with family) was fishing on Frankston Pier when he was allegedly attacked by homeless man Forrest Stevenson, 36, just 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 heavy hearts that we announce the tragic passing of our beloved friend, brother, Daddy, husband and cousin, Andres,' the post read. 

'He was (allegedly) senselessly attacked by an unknown assailant while doing something he loved – fishing. This unimaginable (alleged) act has left our family devastated and in profound grief. His absence leaves an irreplaceable void in our lives.

'In honour of Andres' memory, we ask that you keep his spirit alive by cherishing your loved ones and spreading kindness wherever you go.' 

Stevenson was arrested on the nearby foreshore a short time after the alleged attack with Mr Pancha found unresponsive on the pier. 

Nearly 100 people gathered for the vigil early on Saturday morning
Nearly 100 people gathered for the vigil early on Saturday morning
Flowers were left behind for the beloved father-of-three
Flowers were left behind for the beloved father-of-three
Filipino father-of-three Andres Pancha, 45, has been remembered in a dawn vigil on Saturday
Filipino father-of-three Andres Pancha, 45, has been remembered in a dawn vigil on Saturday
The father-of-three was allegedly murdered last weekend
The father-of-three was allegedly murdered last weekend 

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.

'Still young and already gone, RIP Andres Pancha. We will miss you,' Cor Glover said.

Forrest Stevenson, 36, is of no fixed address and promotes himself on social media as an amateur artist who tattoos his own body. He has been charged with murder
Forrest Stevenson, 36, is of no fixed address and 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 at Melbourne Magistrates Court last 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 time in custody 'more comfortable'.

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