A third individual has been charged in connection with the murder of Zdravko Bilic, a Sunshine Coast resident whose body was discovered in his front yard last week. The case was presented at the Toowoomba Magistrates Court, where 18-year-old Kieysha Jade Sky faced multiple charges, including murder.
Zdravko Bilic, 57, was allegedly killed on the night of July 13 during what police describe as a break-in at his Warana home. His body, bearing two stab wounds to the stomach, was found the following day. Queensland Police arrested Sky on charges of murder, armed robbery, and several other offenses.
Details of the Charges
In addition to the murder charge, Sky faces accusations of robbery armed in company, wounding or using personal violence, unlawful use of a motor vehicle in company, and assault occasioning bodily harm. She is also charged with attempting to enter premises to commit an indictable offense. Sky did not appear in court and was represented by lawyer Brad Skuse, who requested the case be transferred to the Maroochydore Magistrates Court.
Magistrate Michelle Dooley granted the request, adjourning the case to September 29 and ordering that a brief of evidence be provided to Sky’s legal team by September 3. Sky has not applied for bail, which, in Queensland, can only be sought in the Supreme Court for murder charges.
Connection to Previous Arrests
Sky’s arrest follows the detention of two teenage boys, aged 15 and 17, who were charged with Bilic’s murder last Thursday. Their cases were mentioned in the Maroochydore Children’s Court, where they were remanded in custody, with further mentions scheduled for September.
The arrests highlight a troubling trend of youth involvement in serious crimes in the region. According to Queensland Police, there has been an uptick in violent offenses involving young offenders, prompting calls for stricter measures and community interventions.
Impact on the Family
Zdravko Bilic’s death has left a profound impact on his family, particularly his wife, Gry Tomte, who was interstate at the time of the incident. Concerned after not hearing from her husband, Tomte asked a neighbor to check on him, leading to the discovery of his body.
“There is no way I can capture the immense grief I feel over losing the most beautiful man. My world for 28 years,” Tomte expressed in a heartfelt social media post.
Bilic, who had lived on the Sunshine Coast for several years, was known for his warm personality and dedication to his family and community. His tragic death has sparked an outpouring of support and condolences from friends and neighbors.
Looking Ahead
The legal proceedings in this case will continue to unfold over the coming months. The transfer of Sky’s case to the Maroochydore Magistrates Court will be closely watched, as will the developments in the cases of the two teenage boys. The community remains on edge, grappling with the shock of the crime and its implications for local safety.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. The case underscores the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in addressing violent crime and ensuring justice for victims and their families.
The Sunshine Coast community, still reeling from the loss, is left to ponder the broader societal issues that contribute to such tragedies, hoping for healing and resolution in the wake of this devastating event.
