Content Warning: This article includes information about an Indigenous individual who has passed away, along with their name and photos. The family of Cassius Turvey has granted permission for the use of his name and images.
The tragic death of Cassius Turvey sparked widespread protests and vigils throughout Australia. Two individuals have been convicted of the murder of the Aboriginal teenager, who was chased and brutally assaulted by a group of vigilantes, causing outrage across the country.
Cassius, a 15-year-old Noongar Yamatji boy, succumbed to head injuries in October 2022, 10 days after the vicious attack on the outskirts of Perth. This incident led to nationwide demonstrations and remembrances in his honor.
Following a 12-week trial, Jack Steven James Brearley, 24, and Brodie Lee Palmer, 29, were found guilty of Cassius’ murder, while Mitchell Colin Forth, 27, was convicted of manslaughter. Another woman present during the events preceding the attack was acquitted.
Cassius’ mother, Mechelle Turvey, expressed a mix of relief and despair upon hearing the verdict, stating that true justice could never be achieved as she will never see her son again.
The assault on Cassius was part of a series of retaliatory actions unrelated to him, according to court testimonies. The assailants were reportedly seeking retribution for damage done to Brearley’s vehicle, escalating into a violent encounter with Cassius and his peers.
Despite Cassius’ lack of involvement in the initial incident, he was targeted and assaulted by the group, resulting in severe head trauma. Despite undergoing surgeries in an attempt to save his life, Cassius tragically passed away due to his injuries.
The perpetrators were captured on camera boasting about the attack, with conflicting claims of self-defense and blame among them. The court ultimately held Brearley and Palmer responsible for Cassius’ murder, while Forth was found guilty of manslaughter.
The individuals convicted are scheduled for sentencing on June 26. Mechelle Turvey expressed gratitude towards trial witnesses, many of whom were young children deeply affected by the events. She also extended thanks to the Australian community for their support during this challenging time.
Described as a kind and humorous teenager, Cassius was fondly remembered by his mother and the local community. Alongside his friends, he had initiated a small business to connect with neighbors and offer lawn-mowing services, aiming to challenge negative stereotypes about Indigenous individuals.
“Youth in Australia mourned the loss of Cassius, a young man known for his humor and love of posing,” Mechelle Turvey shared, displaying photographs of him smiling. His tragic death in 2022 stirred up national sorrow and outrage, prompting thousands to gather at vigils in various locations throughout the country, as well as in the US and New Zealand. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese suggested the attack was racially motivated, sparking a renewed discussion on racial discrimination. “Australia’s global reputation for such violence is alarming,” remarked human rights lawyer Hannah McGlade in an interview with the BBC. The incident shed light on racism following the killing of the Aboriginal boy, leaving his mother devastated and the nation in shock.
