An Indigenous boy who died in Perth after being allegedly bashed with a metal pole while walking home from school is being remembered as a young leader and a beloved son.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Police are continuing to investigate the death of 15-year-old Cassius Turvey, who succumbed to serious injuries in hospital on Sunday.
Jack Steven James Brearley, 21, has been charged with the boy's murder and is due to face a Perth court next month.
Cassius was walking with friends in Middle Swan on October 13 when it's alleged they were approached by Brearley, who had been a passenger in a ute.
It's alleged Brearley chased the youths before attacking Cassius with a metal pole, leaving him with serious head injuries.
Police say Brearley's vehicle was damaged a day prior to the assault but there is no suggestion Cassius had any involvement.
Detectives are examining allegations racial slurs were made towards Cassius.
"It may be a case of mistaken identity. It may be a case of being in the wrong place at the wrong time," Police Commissioner Col Blanch told Perth radio 6PR.
"We are not operating on any principles of racism or motivation at this point ... I think it will be wrong for me to speculate at this time."
Federal MP Tania Lawrence, whose Hasluck electorate includes Middle Swan, told parliament on Thursday there had been an outpouring of sadness and grief in the community.
"My heart goes to Cassius's mother and family and his friends who are directly affected," she said during an emotional speech.
"Every child needs to be able to walk home safely from school."
Ms Lawrence spoke of how Cassius had started his own lawnmowing business and had been invited at age 11 to give an acknowledgement of country at the WA parliament.
"He was connected to his community and he was ready to take on the world," she said.
"Cassius's mother Mechelle describes him as a joyous son, full of respect. His friends describe him as the one they would look up to."
Police have identified four people they believe were inside the ute at the time of the incident and the investigation is continuing.
No other charges have been laid.
Premier Mark McGowan said it was a terrible tragedy.
"It's extremely sad. I just feel so much for the family of that little boy. He looked like a beautiful little boy," the premier told reporters.
"They are going through a lot and it's unimaginable, really. I just urge everyone to let the law run its course."
A crowdfunding page launched on behalf of Cassius's family has raised almost $300,000 for funeral and legal costs.
Brearley is due to face Stirling Gardens Magistrates Court on November 9.
Australian Associated Press
