Eighth person charged following Cobblebank deaths

Homicide Squad detectives have charged an eighth person today as part of their investigation into the deaths of two children in Cobblebank earlier this month.

A 15-year-old boy, who is currently in custody on unrelated matters, has been charged with murder in relation to 15-year-old Dau Akueng’s death.

He will appear at a children’s court at a later date.

On Friday, 18 September detectives charged seven people in relation to the deaths.

A 19-year-old Thornhill man, a16-year-old Sunbury boy, a 15-year-old Hillside boy and a 16-year-old Sydenham boy have been charged with the murder of 15-year-old Dau Akueng.

A 19-year-old Caroline Springs man, an 18-year-old Wollert man and a 16-year-old Sydenham boy have been charged with the murder of 12-year-old Chol Achiek.

The charges follow two incidents in Cobblebank on Saturday, 6 September that resulted in the deaths of 15-year-old Dau Akueng and 12-year-old Chol Achiek.

Emergency services were initially called shortly before 8pm that night following reports two children had been fatally injured.

Chol was subsequently located on Marble Drive while Dau was located on Cobble Street.

Both of the boys were bravely assisted by members of the public before they sadly passed away at the scene.

Since the incident occurred, a significant investigation led by detectives from the Homicide Squad has been underway in an effort to identify those responsible and collect all available evidence.

Local police have also increased patrols in the Cobblebank area as part of their community reassurance efforts, and have also met with local schools, council and community leaders.

Natalie Webster
Media Unit
141357