KUALA LUMPUR: Kum Chuan Leong, a 29-year-old Malaysian pharmacist, was found murdered in his Melbourne home on Wednesday. According to Australia’s 7News network, Leong, who had worked at a public health services company since 2021, was discovered dead by a colleague at his residence in Bellfield, near Ivanhoe, Melbourne, around 11:30 am. The colleague became concerned when Leong failed to show up for work and went to check on him.
Police have detained a 54-year-old homeless man in connection with the murder. The suspect, Simon Hunter, appeared at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court via video link from Heidelberg police station the following day, where he was charged with the murder. Hunter’s behavior during the court proceedings raised concerns, as he removed his clothes in front of the judge. Magistrate Tara Hartnett delayed the hearing until Hunter was moved to a separate room to allow for better communication. The court was told Hunter, who suffers from schizophrenia, had not been taking his medication for two weeks prior to the incident.
Leong’s employer, Eastern Health, expressed deep sadness over the loss. Chief Executive David Plunkett described Leong as a talented leader and mentor, remembering him for his generosity, kindness, and dedication to his work. “KC,” as he was affectionately known, was just 29 years old, and his untimely death has left a profound impact on his colleagues and the broader community.
Leong’s family, who had flown in from Malaysia, did not attend the court hearing. Hunter remains remanded and is scheduled to return to court on January 16.