Man stabbed to death in Kew a ‘selfless’ hero who helped police track down killer
Elwood’s Chris Polden bravely described his attacker to police in a call as he lay dying after a random stabbing attack in Kew. It was an act loved ones say was typically selfless of an ‘amazing, caring’ man who loved gardening.
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The family of a man who was randomly stabbed to death on a Kew footpath say their “lives won’t be the same” without him.
Elwood man Chris Polden, 59, was murdered on Cotham Road outside a tram stop in a frenzied attack yesterday morning.
Mr Polden was commended by Victoria’s top cop Graham Ashton for his bravery in calling police with his attacker’s description before he lost consciousness.
It was this phone call which led to the arrest of Mohamed Ibrahim, who had randomly attacked two women and a PSO in a 90 minute rampage through the eastern suburbs.
Speaking to the Herald Sun, Mr Polden’s niece and goddaughter Tania Logan said he was a “selfless” man who did not deserve to die.
“He was like a father to me, he was the most amazing, caring person,” Mrs Logan said.
“I’m angry, he lost his life for no reason. Our lives aren’t going to be the same without him.
“The other guy doesn’t get to answer what he has taken away from me and other people.”
Ibrahim was shot dead by police after he tried to attack critical incident response team officers with a knife.
In December, Mr Polden spoke at Mrs Logan’s wedding which was a “really special” time for the family.
“He was my person, he was really close to me,” she said.
“He was a massive part of people’s lives.
“He would do anything for anyone. He was very humble.”
The Elwood man loved supporting local cafes and businesses and was embedded in his community.
He was an avid green thumb who loved to garden.
Paramedics were sadly unable to revive Mr Polden and he died in hospital.
His family will prepare for his funeral next week.
Police Minister Lisa Neville said it was a “horrific and senseless” crime.
“The selflessness of this particular victim – to contact police and describe the offender while fatally wounded – potentially saved the lives of others in and community and is an act of incredible bravery,” she said.
“We will consider the best way to publicly acknowledge his heroic actions.”
A police spokeswoman said an award would be considered in “due course” to acknowledge his sacrifice
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