Accused Killer Denies Decapitating Man and Murdering Pregnant Partner in Melbourne Court Appearance
Ross Judd, a 35-year-old man accused of two horrific murders, has formally pleaded not guilty to the charges during a committal hearing at Melbourne Magistrates' Court. The case involves the alleged killings of Andrew Gunn, 50, and his pregnant partner Athena Georgopoulos, 39, in what police describe as a targeted attack at their Mount Waverley residence on August 11 last year.
Graphic Details Emerge in Court Proceedings
During Tuesday's hearing, which Judd attended via videolink from Melbourne Assessment Prison, disturbing allegations were presented to the court. Prosecutors claim that Judd not only murdered both victims but decapitated Mr. Gunn and placed his head on a spike inside the small unit. Specialist forensic investigators reportedly encountered a blood-spattered scene when they entered the Adrienne Crescent property.
Judd appeared unshaven and wore a white t-shirt during the proceedings, requiring both a French interpreter and a telephone to listen to the hearing. "I plead not guilty," he exclaimed during the session, which was attended by family and friends of the alleged victims.
Police Response and Arrest Details
The tragedy unfolded when neighbors reported hearing yelling from the property on Monday night. Police received multiple calls about the disturbance, with a second call suggesting the situation was particularly urgent. Heavily armed officers arrived at the scene at approximately 9:55 PM and discovered both victims deceased inside the unit.
Just hours after the alleged murders, Judd was arrested at nearby Westall Railway Station, approximately six kilometers from the crime scene. He was taken into custody with two large dogs in his possession. Police investigators are still working to establish the precise connection between Judd and the couple, though they believe he was known to them and that one victim lived in the unit where the attack occurred.
Victims Remembered as Excited Expectant Parents
Athena Georgopoulos was approximately four months pregnant when she was allegedly murdered, with her family describing her as "excited about motherhood." Her mother, Petty Georgopoulos, posted a heartbreaking tribute on social media following the tragedy, writing: "My little heart, you left life so unfairly that I still cannot believe it. In recent days you were so happy - we made dreams together for our little granddaughter."
Ms. Georgopoulos had worked as a customer service representative for several electricity and insurance companies and had been in a relationship with Mr. Gunn for three years. Friends and colleagues posted numerous tributes online, remembering her as a joyful presence who brought smiles and laughter to those around her.
Previous Court Appearances and Additional Charges
This is not Judd's first court appearance related to the case. During a previous hearing in January, he had to be restrained after exclaiming his innocence and claiming that Mr. Gunn "stole my dog." He stated at that time: "I think it's very long, it's taking way too long, it's really seriously deeply unfair for me because I'm innocent, he stole my dog, my money."
In addition to the two murder charges, Judd faces allegations regarding previous threats, according to information revealed in court. His defense lawyer, Angie Wong, indicated that the question of Judd's fitness to stand trial "will be reserved" for future consideration.
Investigation Continues with Graffiti Evidence
Police investigators have examined whether graffiti found outside the property might be connected to the murders. The messages, sprayed in luminous yellow-green and black paint on the home's fence and exterior walls, included phrases such as "U R Gay," "Enough is Enough," "Betrayal," and "Karma."
Detective Inspector Dean Thomas from the Homicide Squad provided details about the police response, noting that officers were initially called for a welfare check based on yelling heard from the property. The case continues to develop as prosecutors prepare their evidence for trial following Judd's not guilty plea.
