Homicide Squad detectives have charged a third man with murder following the fatal shooting of 16-year-old Ater Good in Melbourne’s inner north, as investigators continue to examine possible links to other violent incidents across the city.
Ater was shot near the intersection of Brunswick and King William streets in Fitzroy just after midnight on January 3. A police officer stationed nearby heard two gunshots and rushed to the scene, where the teenager was found with critical injuries. Despite immediate first aid, he died at the scene, prompting an extensive homicide investigation.
On Monday, detectives arrested a 21-year-old man from Heidelberg at Melbourne Airport. He was interviewed and charged with one count of murder before appearing at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court, where he was remanded in custody until June.
Two other men — a 19-year-old from Heidelberg West and a 20-year-old from Bundoora — were charged with murder earlier this month. They have also been remanded and are scheduled to return to court in June.
Victoria Police have previously described the shooting as appearing to be targeted. Detectives are now working to determine whether it is connected to the stabbing of two men in Carlton’s busy Lygon Street precinct on New Year’s Eve, when a group allegedly armed with knives and machetes attacked two people outside a restaurant.
As part of the response, Crime Command detectives, regional police and specialist units — including Taskforce VIPER — have launched Operation Firelong to investigate both incidents and prevent further violence.
The death of Ater has sent shockwaves through the local community. His family has spoken publicly of their grief, describing him as a deeply loved eldest son whose loss has left a lasting void for his siblings and friends.
Police continue to appeal for information as the investigation remains active, urging anyone with relevant details or footage to contact authorities.
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