Grieving family breaks silence to pay powerful tribute to cowardly victim as his alleged attacker faces court
The family of a young man who lost his fight for life in intensive care a week after he was allegedly punched and kicked have paid an emotional tribute to the 22-year-old as his accused attacker was released on bail.
Cameron Duce was allegedly punched by Austin Lewis Blaney Ballard, 18, on The Esplanade, in Burleigh Heads on Queensland‘S Gold Coast in the early hours of September 22, as he walked home after a night out with friends.
He was rushed to Gold Coast University Hospital where doctors tried to save his life for seven days before he finally succumbed to his serious head injuries on Saturday.
Chris Duce fought back tears and thanked the medical “heroes” who tried to save his son as he gave an emotional public address Tuesday, flanked by distraught loved ones.
“Cameron was a loving, caring, thoughtful and funny young man. A beloved son, brother, uncle, grandson, nephew and cousin,” Duce said.
“He also had a very large group of close friends, friends and family who all wanted the best possible outcome for him.
“He did absolutely nothing to deserve this.”
Mr Duce said a wide circle of family and friends surrounded Cameron at his hospital bedside in intensive care in his final days.
Cameron Duce, 22, died a week after he was allegedly attacked while walking home after a night out with friends
Cameron’s father Chris Duce (pictured second left) paid an emotional tribute to his son on Tuesday as he was supported by distraught loved ones
“Cameron is an innocent victim through all of this. A beautiful, caring, attentive and loving son, brother, grandson and uncle left us far too soon,” an emotional Duce told reporters.
‘Cameron David Duce, a beautiful little boy, son and brother, taken too soon. Forever 22.”
A police investigation into Cameron’s death is ongoing.
Mr Duce called on anyone who could assist police with the investigation to come forward.
“We know that police are conducting a thorough investigation and we trust that they will do their utmost to identify, locate the person(s) and anyone else allegedly responsible for the actions that caused Cameron’s traumatic and ultimately fatal head injuries and to sue,” he said. said.
Cameron Duce was reportedly beaten before hitting his head on the ground on September 22
Austin Ballard was released on bail after being charged in Cameron’s death
“We also know and accept that this may take some time, so we are prepared to be patient while they do their work.
“If anyone has any information, no matter how big or small, now is the time to stand up. Please report to the police.”
The emotional plea came hours after Ballard was charged with an unlawful strike resulting in death on Monday evening.
He appeared at Southport Magistrates Court where he was released on bail.
The court heard Ballard had no criminal history, had a supportive family and shelter, along with a steady job where he worked 8-10 hours a day.
He is banned from contacting witnesses to the alleged assault, must adhere to a curfew and have a blood alcohol level of less than 0.05 percent at all times as part of his strict bail conditions.
Ballard, who was led from the courthouse by family members, is scheduled to appear in court on November 4.
