Family tragedy leaves man dead, elderly mother in hospital

An elderly woman is under police guard in hospital after her son was found dead in a violent Greensborough family tragedy, with police probing if an axe was used to kill him.

A man was found dead in a quiet street in Greensborough. Picture: Jason Edwards

Teary neighbours of a Greensborough family paid their respects with floral tributes on Tuesday after a man was found dead in his elderly parents’ home.

While charges are yet to be laid, homicide squad detectives will probe if an axe was used as a weapon in the violent family tragedy.

William Heddergott, 50, was found dead inside the Palmyra Court home where he lives on Monday about 11.30am.

His elderly mother Erica Heddergott, 81, was on Tuesday under police guard in hospital being treated for her injuries sustained in the incident.

The family had lived in the sleepy cul-de-sac for several decades.

Police have swarmed the usually quiet street. Picture: Jason Edwards

Detectives at the scene, where William Heddergott’s body was found. Picture: Jason Edwards

Mrs Heddergott’s husband is alive but lives in an aged care facility due to declining health.

She was described by shocked neighbours as a “very caring” mother.

“It’s horribly sad, we are trying to get over the shock,” one upset neighbour, who wished to remain nameless, said.

“They were very private people, insular. From what I observed, she cared for him deeply and loved him very much.

“She was very devoted to her family. He was quiet. Who knows what goes on behind closed doors.”

Neighbour Paramjit Kauy said she was “shocked” to see a heavy police presence outside her home of 20 years on Monday.

“I haven’t seen anything like this,” Ms Kauy said.

Flowers outside the Greensborough home where the man was killed.

“I didn’t sleep last night. I have seen the woman once or twice, we would say hello to each other.”

The police investigation remains ongoing.

“The exact circumstances surrounding the incident are yet to be determined,” Victoria Police spokeswoman Natalie Dean said.

Other residents said it was disturbing to watch their neighbourhood turn into a crime scene.

“I was shocked, scared, who wouldn’t be,” a Palmyra Court resident said.

“This is usually a very quiet, friendly court. It only gets busy at school pick up and drop off time.

“We don’t know what happened. The street was blocked and sealed off.

“I do hope everyone will be able to find some peace.”

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