A popular rugby league player has been identified as the man killed in a stabbing outside a fast-food restaurant in Marrickville.
Sitaleki ‘Leki’ Filihiahekava, 32, was fatally stabbed to death outside the Guzman y Gomez store in Marrickville, in Sydney’s inner-west at about 7.40pm on Monday, after having dinner with his family.
It’s understood he and his attacker met outside the restaurant before he was stabbed, with his killer still on the run.
Police and distressed family members rushed to the scene, where first aid was provided, but the man was unable to be saved.
Witnesses heard the ‘heartbreaking’ cries of the man’s mother, while his brother rushed to lift the sheet covering the body.
Police held back the distraught man who was heard screaming: ‘He’s my f***ing brother, don’t touch me.’
The brother was restrained by police and a taser was drawn but not deployed.
Bouquets of flowers, handwritten notes and a lit candle were left outside the front of the Mexican restaurant on Tuesday, as Mr Filihiahekava’s loved ones struggle to come to terms with his loss.
Many were seen in tears and consoling each other as they stood on the same spot where their mate lost his life.
Sitaleki Filihiahekava, 32, was fatally stabbed to death outside the Guzman y Gomez store in Marrickville
Sitaleki Filihiahekava (pictured centre) was a popular player with Mascot Juniors
Mascot Juniors footy club president Frank Cookson said Filihiahekava will be missed.
‘It is with sincere regret we advise the passing of one of our club’s players Sitaleki Filihiahekava last evening in terrible circumstances,’ Cookson wrote.
‘Leki was a well liked and respected integral member of our A Reserve grade premiership team two weeks ago where he performed admirably.
‘To the extensive Filihiahekava family and Leki’s multitude of friends we express our deepest sympathy.
‘RIP Leki your happy, friendly personality will be greatly missed.’
Heartbroken loved ones of a young man stabbed outside a popular Mexican restaurant have returned to the scene of the shocking crime to leave flowers and pay their respects
‘RIP Leki your happy, friendly personality will be greatly missed,’ one bouquet read
Filihiahekava (pictured left)
This is a breaking story. More to come.
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