Russel Rajapakse charged with stabbing murder of Corey Breceljnik in Watanobbi
Russel Rajapakse, 28, has faced court for the first time after being charged with the stabbing murder of Corey Breceljnik, 26, on the Central Coast. It comes amid explosive revelations police are hunting a second man in connection with the incident.
Central Coast
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Wearing a black jumper and sporting a shaved head with a curly mullet ponytail, Russel Rajapakse, 28, of Mannering Park, faced Wyong Local Court on Thursday charged with the stabbing murder of 26-year-old Corey Breceljnik at Watanobbi.
Emergency services were called to a home on Slim Close about 11.30pm on Sunday, October 26, where Mr Breceljnik was found with stab wounds to his chest and face.
The father-of-two went outside to take a phone call when he was allegedly attacked.
He was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before he was taken in a critical condition to John Hunter Hospital, where he later died.
A crime scene was established and an investigation into his death was launched by officers from Tuggerah Lakes Police and assisted by the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad.
Following inquiries, detectives conducted a search warrant at a house in Minnamurra Rd, Gorokan about 6.40pm on Wednesday, October 28.
Officers arrested 28-year-old Mr Rajapakse at the premises and he was later taken to Wyong Police Station.
He was charged with murder and was refused bail to appear at Wyong Local Court today.
His solicitor Peter Webb did not apply for bail and it was formally refused.
Mr Rajapakse said nothing during his brief appearance but did nod a number of times to a man seated in the public gallery.
Magistrate Caleb Franklin ordered a breif of evidence be served on Mr Rajapakse’s defence by December 24 before adjourning the matter to the same court on January 19.
It comes as a source close to the investigation has told the Express Advocat e, police — who have continued to appeal for public information in relation to the incident — are hunting a second in connection with the incident.
It is not known what alleged involvement the second man had in Mr Breceljnik’s murder.
Inquiries are continuing.