Brandon Ellis dedicates win to Eurydice Dixon

RICHMOND star Brandon Ellis says he was devastated by the death of childhood friend Eurydice Dixon, honouring her during today’s clash against Geelong.

RICHMOND star Brandon Ellis has paid tribute to his childhood friend, Eurydice Dixon, who was murdered in Carlton North last week.

Ellis wore a black armband during the Tigers’ clash with Geelong on Sunday in honour of the 22-year-old who was raped and killed while walking home on Tuesday evening.

The premiership player said he grew up in the same housing commission flats as Ms Dixon for more than a decade and was devastated by her death.

Ellis and Ms Dixon both attended Princes Hill Secondary College in Carlton North.

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Brandon Ellis during the round 13 match against the Cats. Picture: Quinn Rooney/Getty Images

Eurydice Dixon and Ellis both attended Princes Hill Secondary College in Carlton North. Picture: Supplied

“I couldn’t believe it when my mum … told me what happened. It’s been a tough week. This one is for her,” he told 3AW.

Speaking after the Tigers’ 18-point win, the midfielder said he wore the armband to send a strong message that ­violence against women was not acceptable.

“She would’ve walked that route home most nights,” he said.

“It’s just really sad that women just can’t go walking alone. Men just need to have a hard look at themselves.

“It’s just so sad. It’s rocked the community, everyone is shocked.”

Ellis said he “grew up at Princes Park” — the park where Ms Dixon’s body was found by a passer-by early on Wednesday and where a memorial event will be held tonight.

The vigil will be held at pitch two, between Royal Parade and Princes Park Drive.

Organisers say it is intended to be a show of “love and ­respect, holding space, and gentle resistance”. Those attending are asked to arrive between 5.30pm and 6pm.

The pitch two lights will be turned off from 6pm for 30 minutes of quiet reflection.

Other vigils will be held in country and interstate areas this week.

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FOR A LIST OF VIGILS, GO TO: facebook.com/events/201110297199113/