The 20-year-old victim of a fatal shooting in Melbourne’s inner north has been remembered as having a “beautiful heart” and always putting others first, as police continue to investigate the incident.
Pal Bidong was an up-and-coming rapper known as Peezy, in Melbourne’s drill music scene — a sub-genre of hip hop.
He was found dead with a gunshot wound on Langford Street in North Melbourne around 3:15am on Saturday.
His brother, Nyot, described Mr Bidong as a “lovely, caring person” who people gravitated to.
“He was someone you could talk to for hours, and it didn’t matter what it was about,” he said.
To all of us, and the people who knew him, he was already the biggest thing, and he just wanted to be the biggest thing in the world.”
Nyot said his family were trying to be strong and stick together.
Mr Bidong’s music manager, Iltaf Alessandro, paid tribute to Mr Bidong, saying he was loved by many and would be missed.
“He was one-of-a-kind, beautiful heart and always there for his loved ones,” he said.
“Influencing kids to chase their dreams and smash their goals.
“He was very dedicated in music and was working everyday to change his circumstances.
He was loved by many and will be missed a lot.”
Police, community groups call for calm
A Victoria Police spokesperson said the events of Saturday were “devastating for all involved”.
“These incidents impact the entire community, and police are aware of tensions in the community as a result of this. Police are undertaking proactive reassurance activities.”
Kot Monoah, a lawyer and former community chairperson of the South Sudanese Community Association of Victoria, said it was tragic news for Mr Bidong’s family and loved ones.
