Good Samaritan killed after stopping at car crash scene was a ‘beacon of kindness’

A man was arrested after a group of fisherman came across him screaming, naked and clinging to the hull of a boat. Police have now alleged what led up to his rescue.

A Good Samaritan allegedly murdered after stopping at the scene of a single vehicle car accident has been remembered as a “beacon of love, kindness and compassion”.

John Matta was driving along Indian Ocean Drive near the town of Cervantes, about two hours north of Perth, just after midnight on 26 September.

The 38-year-old came across a white Mitsubishi Pajero that had veered off the road and rolled, and stopped to offer assistance.

Police allege the 19-year-old driver, Benjamin Jack McLaughlin, then attacked Mr Matta and killed him. His remains were found later inside the burnt out Mitsubishi.

John Matta has been remembered as a "beacon of kindness".

McLaughlin allegedly stole Mr Matta’s red SUV and fled the scene before driving it into the ocean some two kilometres away near Cervantes Jetty.

He was arrested a few hours later in dramatic scenes after a group of fisherman came across him screaming, naked and clinging to the hull of a drifting boat.

John Matta's car was found floating in the ocean.

A Go Fund Me has been launched by Mr Matta’s friend Matthew Ibraheem, raising money for three charities that were close to his heart.

“To those who knew John, he was one of a kind,” Mr Ibraheem wrote.

“With his infectious smile, his radiating heart, and his incredible singing voice, he was taken from us too soon.

“We remember and celebrate the life of one such extraordinary soul. A true Good Samaritan who touched the lives of countless people with his selflessness and love for humanity.

“John’s heart overflowed with love, and his actions spoke louder than words. An extraordinary individual who never hesitated to lend a helping hand to those in need. His compassion and dedication to making the world a better place touched the lives of everyone he encountered.

“We tragically lost our beloved friend. We wish to honour his legacy and love.”

Benjamin Jack McLaughlin, 19, has been charged with murder.

The Go Fund Me is raising money for three causes – amputees, diabetic treatment in his hometown, and Coptic orphans.

It’s been revealed Mr Matta had recently undergone the amputation of his leg.

“Although John may not be with us anymore, his spirit and the impact he had on the lives of his friends, family and wider community will live on forever,” Mr Ibraheem wrote.

“Together, we can ensure that John’s legacy continues to inspire acts of kindness and selflessness in our community and beyond – a cause, we believe, John would be proud of, smiling from above.

“We invite you to join us in celebrating the life of a true hero, by donating in his memory.”

John Matta has been remembered as a "beacon of kindness".

He fronted Perth Magistrates Court last week charged with murder, aggravated criminal damage and motor vehicle theft.

He did not apply for bail and remains behind bars. He will next appear in court on 25 October.

“He is distraught,” the man’s lawyer Paul Holmes told reporters.

“I had a long discussion with him last night when he was in the custody of officers. Naturally, it’s come as a huge shock to him. “I will facilitate further discussions in time.”

As well as offences relating to the alleged murder, he has also been charged with obstructing and assaulting a public officer, assaulting a person aiding a public officer, and casting away ships.

Originally published as Good Samaritan killed after stopping at car crash scene was a ‘beacon of kindness’