Heartbreak over death of mate
THE local chef who made a second-storey leap for his life during the murderous hostel rampage has returned to the Gold Coast “devastated and heartbroken”.
Chris Porter, 21, yesterday made his first public comments since Tuesday’s attack at the Home Hill Shelley’s Backpackers when fellow Brit and his Gold Coast mate Mia Ayliffe-Chung was killed.
Mr Porter, who suffered leg injuries from the landing, said in a Facebook post he returned to the Coast late on Thursday after being discharged from hospital.
“I’m really sorry I haven’t let you guys know that I’m OK – my phone has just been bombarded,” he wrote.
Describing Miss AyliffeChunge as “an absolute gem”, he said: “I’m truly devastated and heartbroken about what has happened and I’m still in shock. Never thought I’d be heading back through that airport without Mia.
“I’d appreciate if everyone just give me some time to myself for a while and I will get through all my inbox gradually,” he posted, adding a “get well soon” message for fellow Brit Tom Jackson who remains in hospital with critical injuries.
Yesterday, Smail Ayad, the French national charged with Miss Ayliffe-Chung’s murder, two attempted murders and 12 counts of assaulting police, was remanded in custody until October 28. It was planned he would appear in court via video link but no appearance occurred.