Joondalup, WA — A 27-year-old man is scheduled to appear before Joondalup Magistrates Court this morning, charged with murder following the fatal stabbing of 57-year-old Rick Bezant in Hocking yesterday morning.
According to Western Australia Police, emergency services were called to a home on Dimitrios Court around 6:45 a.m. after reports of a man suffering critical stab wounds. Paramedics from St John Ambulance transported Bezant to Joondalup Health Campus, where he later died from his injuries.
SUPPORT THE FAMILY - GOD BLESS YOU
Police allege the accused, from Craigie, arrived at the property around 6:35 a.m., shortly before the emergency call. Investigators believe a physical altercation occurred between the two men, resulting in Bezant sustaining fatal stab wounds. Detectives confirmed that the men were known to each other, though the nature of their relationship is still under investigation.
Neighbors told 9 News Perth that the residence had been a source of concern for some time, with frequent police visits and reports of suspicious activity. Some residents referred to Bezant as a “playground drug dealer,” suggesting the incident may have been connected to a drug deal gone wrong.
The accused remains in custody and faces one count of murder. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or submit a report online at crimestopperswa.com.au.