Tragic Assault in Footscray Claims Life of Esteemed Photographer
The Melbourne community is reeling after the tragic death of former Age photographer Dominic O’Brien, who died following an alleged brutal assault in Footscray. The attack occurred last Sunday morning near the busy intersection of Nicholson and Paisley streets in the Footscray Mall.
Dominic O’Brien [Facebook/The Age]
O’Brien, 62, suffered critical injuries during the incident. Authorities rushed him to the hospital, where he remained on life support until his passing on Saturday morning. The devastating news has sent shockwaves through the media and photography circles, where O’Brien had earned a reputation as a talented and dedicated professional.
The aftermath of the assault in Footscray Mall on Sunday. [Credit: Penny Stephens]
Life and Legacy of Dominic O’Brien
O’Brien dedicated over 35 years to his craft, working with reputable names such as The Age, AAP, Reuters, The Australian, Mushroom Records, and Warner Records. He built a formidable portfolio and became known for his versatility and sharp eye behind the lens.
Leigh Henningham, his former picture editor at The Age during the 1990s, remembered O’Brien fondly.
“He was a very nice guy. It was a very close-knit team that we had back in those days,” Henningham said.
“He was a great photographer, and he was one of the first people to embrace and master the skill of Photoshop, which was a big transition from darkroom analogue to a digital world.”
O’Brien’s talent is perhaps best captured in his iconic image of footballer Jason Akermanis performing a handstand during Brisbane’s 2002 grand final celebrations. The photo stands as a lasting testament to his ability to capture the spirit of a moment.
Henningham said he had kept in touch with O’Brien periodically and expressed his deep sadness at the loss.
“He was very close to his family back in the day … it’s just a tragic event for everyone involved.”
Emergency crews responded to the scene of the alleged assault in Footscray last Sunday. [Credit: 9News]
Alleged Attacker Previously Released from Immigration Detention
Authorities arrested 43-year-old Friday Yokoju shortly after the attack. He appeared in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court the next day, charged with intentionally causing serious injury. However, police are now reviewing those charges in light of O’Brien’s death.
The court heard that Yokoju was on bail at the time and had previously spent time in custody. His lawyer requested an urgent psychiatric assessment, noting his client’s history with the justice system.
The Age confirmed that Yokoju was one of approximately 140 immigration detainees released in late 2023 following a landmark High Court ruling. The decision, known as NZYQ, overturned earlier provisions allowing indefinite immigration detention, prompting the release of numerous long-term detainees. Yokoju had been subject to electronic monitoring through an ankle bracelet as part of his post-release conditions.
Witnesses Describe Disturbing Scene
Two sources and an eyewitness described a harrowing scene. According to their accounts, Yokoju stomped on O’Brien’s head repeatedly before Australian Border Force officers intervened while attending to the accused’s ankle bracelet.
“The other guy kept stomping on the victim’s face and didn’t stop until the Australian Border Force happened to pass by and intervened,” a witness told reporters. The individual, who wished to remain anonymous, said the altercation began after both men stopped by a local gift shop to purchase a lighter. What started as a loud argument quickly escalated into violence, leaving O’Brien unconscious on the ground.
Emergency services responded quickly, but O’Brien’s injuries proved too severe.
Next Steps in the Legal Process
Victoria Police confirmed they would await the results of a postmortem before deciding whether to upgrade the charges against Yokoju. A police spokeswoman noted that the investigation remains ongoing and that investigators are considering all legal avenues.
Yokoju, who currently has no fixed address, remains in custody and is scheduled to reappear in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 20 October. The incident has reignited public debate around the release and monitoring of former immigration detainees, especially those with prior criminal records or mental health concerns.
A Community in Mourning
Dominic O’Brien’s death has not only highlighted significant legal and policy concerns but also left a profound void in the hearts of those who knew him. The veteran photojournalist’s sudden and violent end has prompted tributes from colleagues and admirers across the industry.
His legacy lives on through his body of work, his contribution to Australian visual journalism, and the many people he inspired during his long career. As the community processes the shock and sadness surrounding the Age photographer’s murder, many are calling for justice, and for reflection on how such a tragedy could occur.
