Caroline Springs stabbing victim Kon Kot remembered as hardworking son

A young man killed in a senseless stabbing attack in Caroline Springs was still grieving the loss of his brother who also died in a violent attack.

Kon Kot (L) who was fatally stabbed in Caroline Springs on Monday.,

A young man killed in a senseless stabbing attack in Caroline Springs this week has been remembered as a hard worker who looked after his family.

Kon Kot was fatally stabbed on Monday night outside a Hungry Jacks store on the Western Highway near Caroline Springs Boulevard.

Tragically, the 24-year-old’s death came just months after Mr Kot’s younger brother Machar Kot, 21, was also killed during a fight outside a CBD apartment block.

The spate of violence has left the family “heartbroken” and devastated Melbourne’s wider South Sudanese community.

Community leader and lawyer John Garang Kon, who is a friend of the family, said it was a “shocking” and tragic loss of life.

“Kon was one of those young people who was very committed to his work, he was working to support himself and his family and his young siblings,” Mr Kon said.

“The situation is devastating … it’s something that is very shocking for the entire community and family.

“No one would imagine the same family members dying within six months, they’re so young.”

Mr Kon said the family, who have lived in the Kurunjang and Melton area for almost 10 years, were well respected in the local community with Mr Kot’s father an elder and leader.

He said he was at the family home late on Tuesday night, consoling and supporting relatives.

“It’s very shocking when you see the family going through that, it’s very hard to describe,” Mr Kon said.

He said locals were rallying around the family and calling for calmness among young people following the tragedy.

“The community condemn the action strongly,” Mr Kon said.

“We are just calling for calmness in the community and also for young people to … stop this senseless killing and focus on life. This is not the right thing to do.”

Tributes were also flowing online for Mr Kot, with friends remembering him as “humble” and “one to make jokes.”

Others spoke of his love of soccer and said he was “taken way to soon.”

Caroline Springs man James Makir, 24, has been charged with Mr Kot’s murder.

He fronted the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday afternoon.

Two “unknown co-offenders” are still being sought by police.

Mr Makir remained silent throughout the brief hearing and did not apply for bail.

A Facebook fundraiser has been established to support Mr Kot’s family.

To donate, click here.