A 17-year-old burglar was convicted of murdering Dr Ash Gordon after breaking into his home on two occasions. The teen, whose name is withheld for legal reasons, was found guilty by a jury at the Victorian Supreme Court. He admitted to two counts of aggravated burglary linked to the incidents occurring in the early hours of January 13, 2024, while Dr Gordon and a housemate were asleep.
The accused had attended a party the night before, where he noticed Dr Gordon’s Mercedes-Benz parked in the garage and discussed stealing it. Early on the day of the incident, he and another accomplice entered the doctor’s home through a partially opened garage door, stealing several items including shoes and electronics.
After returning to brag about their thefts, the group planned a second break-in for the car. This time, four masked teenagers attempted entry but were discovered by Dr Gordon, who confronted them. In the ensuing chase, the 33-year-old doctor tried to restrain one of the intruders, warning that the police were coming. In response, the burglar pulled out a knife and inflicted multiple stab wounds on Dr Gordon, leading to his death.
During the chaotic confrontation, two other accomplices returned and one violently kicked the doctor, further exacerbating the situation. Once they had escaped, the teenagers disposed of their clothing and later reconvened to discuss evading authorities. The perpetrator was apprehended three days post-incident.
In court, the defence contended that while the teen confessed to the stabbing, he did not intend to kill or cause serious harm, asserting he acted in self-defence. He claimed that he believed Dr Gordon was trying to run him over with the car and that he had warned the doctor he did not wish to use the knife.
The jury deliberated for two days before reaching their verdict, while family members of Dr Gordon were visibly emotional upon hearing the outcome. This tragic case highlights the severe consequences of youth crime and the impacts it can have on families and communities.