Couple found dead in regional Victoria after neighbour ‘heard gunshots’

A man and a woman have been found dead in their home in Hernes Oak, two hours east of Melbourne.

Police found the bodies of Aaron Hammond and partner Chamindika Jayawardena inside a house on McGraths Track at midday on Monday.

Neighbour Brenno Amarto said he was working on an exhaust system for his truck with his business partner when he heard two bangs.

He said he didn’t think anything of it at the time because duck shooting is common around the rolling hills near his home near Moe.

Investigations into the deaths continue, though Amarto said he was convinced what he heard on Saturday were gunshots.

“I’ve known him for about a year and a half. Aaron used to let me put cattle and bulls on his property,” Amarto said. “Chami would always walk our street … They were a very lovely couple.”

Jayawardena’s friends came to the property on Tuesday with police to collect the couple’s cat.

They did not wish to speak to the media.

Jayawardena would have been 47 on Sunday. The couple had no children.

The tragedy has rattled the small community in the shadow of the Yallourn power station, where Hammond worked as a boilermaker.

“It’s sad for all families involved,” said Amato. “It will shock everyone … we all know each other.”

Police said: “At this stage, investigators are not looking for anyone else in relation to the incident. The investigation remains ongoing.”

Anyone who may have information that can assist police is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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