Toowoomba detectives have today charged three people with murder following the death of 75-year-old Robert Brown (pictured) as the result of an alleged assault in the city’s CBD last week.
It will be alleged the Mr Brown was waiting at a taxi rank on Margaret Street around 5pm when he was pushed from behind, causing him to fall to the ground before his backpack was stolen.
Mr Brown, who was an avid photographer and life member of the Toowoomba Photographic Society, was taken to hospital in a critical condition, where he died on Monday February 13 as a result of his injuries.
An 18-year-old Wilsonton man, a 17-year-old Dalby boy and a 17-year-old Harlaxton boy who were all initially charged over the incident, have today had their charges upgraded to murder.
The 18-year-old Wilsonton man has been remanded in custody and will re-appear in Toowoomba Magistrates on Tuesday March 28.
The 17-year-old boys have been remanded in custody and will appear in the Toowoomba Childrens Court at a later date.
“Investigators would like to thank the community for their assistance and continue to appeal to anyone with information or relevant dashcam footage to come forward,” Queensland Police said in a statement.
Mr Brown is being remembered by fellow members of his beloved Toowoomba Photographic Society as a “unique story telling photographer” who captured many events and notable happenings around the region.
“Of note, was his many prints of the growth of Grand Central, his happy hunting ground, ironically,” Society member, Tryg Helander wrote in a Facebook post.
“Robert has an infectious smile that you can feel in your heart; his enthusiasm for photography too is inspiring.
“Recently gifted a new camera by members of TPS, I am sure Robert was out shooting when this assault occurred. Photography is his deepest passion. We collectively miss your humble nature, your creativity and that wonderful smile.”
“We are all aching inside, as a community. Our elderly deserve better.”
