Blanket clue in shooting
DETECTIVES are searching for the owner of a blanket, allegedly stolen by Christos Panagakos after he ran from his home, following the shooting of Ivona Jovanovic.
Ms Jovanovic was shot in the chest at the Highland Park home about 8.30pm on Sunday night, with police alleging the other people present ran from the home.
It left Panagakos’ mother to call emergency services.
Ms Jovanovic, 27, was rushed to hospital, but died shortly after arrival.
Police allege Panagakos, 27, stole the blanket and used it while he was hiding in nearby bushland, before he returned to his home about 1am on Monday.
In a statement yesterday, police said they were searching for the blanket owners.
“A crime scene was established at the address where a 27-year-old man, who was a resident, returned around 1am on Monday and was taken into custody,” the statement reads.
“The 27-year-old Highland Park man was wearing a blanket (pictured) at the time, which investigators believe may have been stolen from a nearby residence.
“Police are now appealing to anyone who believes they may be the owner of the blanket to come forward.”
Panagakos has not been charged.
Meanwhile, the shooting victim’s younger sister, Annette Jovanovic, has paid emotional tribute to Ivona.
“I would do anything in the world to have you back in our lives,” she wrote. “It’s been two nights and I haven’t been able to sleep. Mama and Tata are destroyed.
“The puppies are wondering where big sister is cause your always home (sic).”
She said it was devastating they didn’t get a chance to say goodbye.
“If only you got to see your family one last time before you let go,” she said. “I’m so sorry there was no one there to at least try to help you have a chance of being reunited with us.
“Just know that you never deserved any of this.”
Ms Jovanovic has a Go Fund Me page to pay for her sister’s funeral and memorial costs. Individual donations of up to $1000 have been flowing from friends, families and strangers, with almost $24,000 raised last night.
If you know more about the incident, don’t hesitate to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.