UPDATE: A 34-year-old homeless man, identified as Ross Judd, has been charged with the alleged double murder of a pregnant woman and her partner in a shocking incident that unfolded in Mount Waverley, Melbourne. The tragic event occurred on Monday night, leading to a swift police response and subsequent arrest.
Judd appeared in Melbourne Magistrates Court earlier today, where he was formally charged with the murders of Athena Georgopoulos, aged 39, and a 50-year-old man. During the hearing, the police prosecutor requested a 10-week extension for investigators to gather vital DNA evidence, citing the complexity of the crime scene.
“It’s a complex crime scene with a significant amount of DNA to be examined,” the prosecutor stated. The tragic fact that one of the victims was pregnant has contributed to the investigation’s delay, with autopsies still pending.
Witnesses alerted authorities to the scene after hearing disturbing noises. A call came in at 9:20 PM, indicating a need for urgent intervention. Police arrived at the scene by 9:50 PM to discover the two deceased individuals.
Judd was apprehended at Westall Railway Station, approximately 6 km from the crime scene, where he was found with two large dogs. Throughout the court proceedings, he displayed a stoic demeanor, responding affirmatively to questions regarding his next court appearance, scheduled for January 13, 2026, via video link.
The emotional impact of this tragedy is profound. Georgopoulos’s mother, Petty, expressed her devastation, sharing a poignant tribute on Facebook: “These last days you were so happy, we dreamt together about our granddaughter who you would bring into this life and suddenly all was extinguished in one night.” Her heartfelt message underscores the heart-wrenching loss felt by the family.
This incident has raised significant public concern, with the Homicide Squad actively investigating the circumstances surrounding this brutal act. The community is left grappling with the shock of such violence, especially given the impending arrival of a new life that will never be.
As the investigation continues, updates are expected regarding the forensic examinations and further developments in the case. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward as they seek to piece together the events leading to this tragedy.
Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent and developing story.
