Murder charge after ‘beautiful boy’ allegedly bashed with metal pipe

Tributes have flowed for a schoolboy allegedly bashed with a metal pipe, with the charge against an accused man upgraded to murder.

The family of a 15-year-old boy who died after he was allegedly bashed with a pole while walking home from school in Perth is demanding justice.

Cassius Turvey and three of his friends had just got off a bus and were walking along Patterson Drive in Middle Swan about 4.30pm on October 13 when a black Ford Ranger utility allegedly pulled up next to them.

The schoolboys were allegedly accused of smashing car windows, with a passenger exiting the vehicle and running towards them.

The boy’s friends managed to run to safety at a Tafe campus, but Cassius was allegedly bashed with the metal pole, causing head injuries which required him to spend five days in hospital.

Cassius Turvey was allegedly bashed in a case of mistaken identity. Picture: Facebook

Hours after he was discharged, Cassius suffered a seizure and was returned to the hospital.

He suffered two strokes and was placed in an induced coma, but died on Sunday.

His mother Michelle Turvey said she was heartbroken to have lost her son, as the family demanded justice.

Jack Steven James Brearley, 21, was initially charged with unlawful wounding.

He faced Midland Magistrates Court on Monday where the charge was upgraded to murder.

Mr Brearley will next face Stirling Gardens Magistrates Court on November 9.

Cassius Turvey suffered severe injuries and could not be saved. Picture: Supplied

A GoFundMe page for the Turvey family has so far raised more than $23,000.

“Your support will go towards extra funeral expenses and the fight for justice for Cassius,” organiser and cousin Michelle Wighton said.

“It is a very tough time for his family, as we only buried his father one month ago from losing his battle from cancer.”

Ms Wighton also posted on social media: “Our family has really felt the love, care and support from all over Australia during this traumatic time.”

Cassisus has been described as a “beautiful boy”, with many people paying tribute to him online.

“Devastating for the family. A beautiful life taken too soon,” one person wrote.

“This was a kind, gentle, respectful boy who’s life was taken so violently,” wrote another.