Home / Crime and Justice / Stranger Murdered in Random NSW South Coast Attack
Stranger Murdered in Random NSW South Coast Attack
20 Jan
Summary
- A man died after a random altercation on a rural property.
- The accused appeared in court over a year after the fatal incident.
- Police are investigating if another person was involved in the murder.
A man, James Balfour, has faced court over a year after allegedly fatally attacking a stranger. The incident occurred on December 9, 2024, when the victim was found with severe head injuries on a fire trail in North Nowra, NSW.
Paramedics treated the 60-year-old, identified as local father Matthew O'Brien, but he sadly passed away at the scene. Police believe O'Brien was attacked by Balfour, who is half his age, following an unexpected altercation.
Balfour, 29, was arrested on Monday and charged with murder, along with unrelated drug supply offenses. He did not seek bail and will remain in custody until his next court appearance in February.
Investigators continue to explore the motive behind the alleged attack and are appealing for public assistance, as they have not ruled out the involvement of another individual.
