The heartbroken parents of Joshua Bishop, a 23-year-old from Melbourne, are seeking justice following the recent murder charge against a man linked to their son’s tragic demise. Joshua was last seen on May 27 at his home in Sunbury, and his phone was later traced to the vicinity of Broadmeadows Valley Park, where his remains were discovered a few days ago.
His parents, Travis and Kristie Bishop, expressed their disbelief over the circumstances surrounding his death, saying it “makes no sense”. They described Joshua as a kind-hearted individual with a bright future, who always prioritised the welfare of others. Travis reminisced about his son’s compassionate nature, emphasising the void left in their lives after his alleged murder. “Now that he’s been taken away from us, that hole cannot be filled,” he lamented.
Authorities had earlier confirmed that Joshua had no known criminal connections, and his family is clinging to the hope that justice will prevail in his case. They voiced their deep frustration over the loss, with Travis reflecting on the stark unfairness of their situation, “We’re in Australia. This is the lucky country. We’ve had our son taken from us, (allegedly) murdered and left to rot.”
The community has rallied in support, with hundreds of missing person flyers circulated across Melbourne’s northern suburbs, including locations near where Joshua’s remains were found. The Bishops expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming backing they received from the community during this harrowing time. As Travis shared, “This is the most horrific thing for a family to go through, and the support from everybody means the world to us.”
As they prepare to honour their son’s memory, the Bishops are steadfast in their call for justice. The accused man is set to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court later today, as the family holds on to hope for closure in this heartbreaking chapter of their lives.