Who was the victim of the NSW South Coast attack?

The victim was identified as local father Matthew O'Brien.

When did the fatal altercation occur in North Nowra?

The alleged fatal altercation occurred on the evening of December 9, 2024.

Has James Balfour been charged with murder?

Yes, James Balfour has been charged with the murder of Matthew O'Brien.

Home / Crime and Justice / Stranger Murdered in Random NSW South Coast Attack

Stranger Murdered in Random NSW South Coast Attack

20 Jan

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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.

Stranger Murdered in Random NSW South Coast Attack

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.