A 32-year-old Indian national, Mihir Desai, has been formally identified as the victim in a fatal stabbing at a home in Melbourne’s eastern suburb of Burwood on Tuesday night.
Emergency services were called to the Winton Street property around 11 pm following reports of a disturbance. Upon arrival, officers discovered Mihir with critical stab wounds. Despite efforts by paramedics, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Victoria Police confirmed Mihir’s identity on Wednesday, stating,
“Our victim has been formally identified, however, we have been unable to notify his next of kin at this time – we have only been able to advise the Indian Consulate.”
The alleged offender, believed to be Mihir’s housemate and also of Gujarati background, was arrested at the scene and is being interviewed by Homicide Squad detectives. Investigators believe the two men were known to each other, and the incident is not being treated as a random attack.
A crime scene has been established as forensic teams continue to examine the property.
Originally from Bilimora in Surat district, Gujarat, Mihir Desai had moved to Australia for study and work opportunities. His mother, now widowed, lives alone in Bilimora, while his sister currently resides in Germany.
News of his death has shocked the Indian-Australian community, with early efforts already underway to support his family and begin the process of repatriation.
The Indian Consulate in Melbourne has been notified, and community leaders are urging authorities to expedite communication with Mihir’s family abroad.
Victoria Police is urging anyone with further information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or file a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Investigations are ongoing, and formal charges are expected to follow.
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