The 20-year-old victim of a fatal shooting in Melbourne's inner north has been remembered as having a "beautiful heart" and always putting others first, as police continue to investigate the incident.
Pal Bidong was an up-and-coming rapper known as Peezy, in Melbourne's drill music scene — a sub-genre of hip hop.
He was found dead with a gunshot wound on Langford Street in North Melbourne around 3:15am on Saturday.
His brother, Nyot, described Mr Bidong as a "lovely, caring person" who people gravitated to.
"He was someone you could talk to for hours, and it didn't matter what it was about," he said.
Nyot said his brother had a star quality about him, and had used his love of music to encourage and inspire others.
"To all of us, and the people who knew him, he was already the biggest thing, and he just wanted to be the biggest thing in the world."
Nyot said his family were trying to be strong and stick together.Mr Bidong's music manager, Iltaf Alessandro, paid tribute to Mr Bidong, saying he was loved by many and would be missed.
"He was one-of-a-kind, beautiful heart and always there for his loved ones," he said.
"Influencing kids to chase their dreams and smash their goals.
"He was very dedicated in music and was working everyday to change his circumstances.
"He was loved by many and will be missed a lot."
Police, community groups call for calm
A Victoria Police spokesperson said the events of Saturday were "devastating for all involved"."These incidents impact the entire community, and police are aware of tensions in the community as a result of this. Police are undertaking proactive reassurance activities."
Kot Monoah, a lawyer and former community chairperson of the South Sudanese Community Association of Victoria, said it was tragic news for Mr Bidong's family and loved ones.
"We feel their pain and suffering and we obviously as a community are supporting the family, but we also urge for calm and for people to … allow the law to take its course."
He encouraged young people in the community to support police, and provide any information that may help find a culprit.
No arrests have been made
Victoria Police Acting Inspector Alan Rumble on Saturday said additional patrols had been deployed in the area.
He said the offenders had not yet been identified or arrested, but there was "nothing to suggest there's an ongoing immediate risk to the community".
Camera footage taken after the shooting showed a volatile scene, with fights breaking out among people in the middle on the street.
A cameraman said he was assaulted and his glasses were smashed.
"There were a number of people in the area, and emotions were high," Acting Inspector Rumble said.
"We urge those witnesses to reach out and contact police."
Anyone who witnessed the incident, has dashcam or CCTV footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
