Melton South footy teammates pay tribute to Kon after Kurunjang stabbing

Friends and footy teammates of a young man killed in a knife fight outside his Kurunjang home have paid tribute to his “cheeky grin and infectious enthusiasm for life”.

Kon, pictured in action for Melton South Panthers, was remembered by his teammates as a ‘vibrant spirit’.

A young man who was slashed to death in a violent knife fight near Melton has been remembered as a keen footballer who came from a “loving Christian home”.

Known among his friends and family as Kon, the 18-year-old was left for dead after a bloody brawl involving more than 40 youths wielding knives and machetes at Kurunjang on Friday.

Kon was stabbed during the targeted attack that unfolded just metres from his home on McBurnie Drive about 7pm that night.

Ngor Agear Dob, 22, and a 15-year-old boy have been charged with Kon’s alleged murder.

CCTV captured several young men running away from the scene where Kon lay dying and was heard begging for help by nearby residents.

Forensic police on the scene of the stabbing. Picture: David Crosling

Friends and family struggle to come to terms with the tragedy. Picture: Jake Nowakowski

Kon’s teammates at Melton South Junior Football and Netball Club, where he played as a “beloved” defender, said the teenager loved the game and would be missed by everybody at the club.

“Kon was not just a teammate. He was a vibrant spirit who brought joy and laughter to everyone around him,” a club statement read.

“His cheeky grin and infectious enthusiasm for life made him a cherished friend to all.

“On the field, Kon was a reliable half-back flanker who embraced every challenge with determination.

“He had a natural talent for taking the game on, inspiring his teammates and captivating our supporters.”

The club affectionately recalled Kon’s enthusiasm and excitement over joining the Panthers, where he recently played in the under 17 boys premiership team.

“His contributions were invaluable, and his presence will be dearly missed,” the club added.

“His passion for football and commitment to the Melton South Junior Football Club will forever resonate within our club.

“Kon, you will always hold a special place in our hearts, especially your teammates and coaches and parents.

“We are grateful for the memories we shared on and off the field and the joy you brought into our lives.

“Rest in peace, You will always be a panther.”

The club said Kon will always hold a special place in the hearts of his teammates.

Kon was remembered by those at the club as more than a teammate.

In pictures shared by friends and loved ones, Kon could be seen smiling alongside his teammates and running around on the football field.

The tribute sparked an outpouring of grief for the young man, with one sharing how close Kon had become with the other boys at the club.

“With lots of sleepovers, we had many a chat around our family dinner table,” the woman said on social media.

“Not only talking about football, but your upbringing, life at church and Jesus. You came from a loving Christian home.”

“Praying for the Lord’s peace over the hearts of your mum and family at this sad time and into the future.

“Heaven gained you far too young … Kon you are safe up there now in Jesus (sic) arms.

“Miss you mate.”

Many of Kon’s friends have shared their well wishes for the young man’s family and have begun leaving flowers near his home where he was killed.

Mr Agear appeared before a court on Christmas Eve, where he could be seen with wounds to his right eye, shoulder and arm.

The court heard it was his first time in custody and that he had been recovering from his injuries in hospital under police guard.

His next appearance is scheduled for April 24 next year.

Originally published as Melton South footy teammates pay tribute to Kon after Kurunjang stabbing