PHOTO: Mr East (pictured) was educated at Harvard Law School and moved to Australia from New Zealand for his law career
A real estate agent faces charges in connection with a suspected hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of a lawyer in Sydney.
Mitch East, 28, was discovered critically injured on Fletcher St in Tamarama, close to Bondi, just meters away from his residence where he resided with his partner, at approximately 4 am on March 17.
Zisi Kokotatsios turned himself in to police. Picture: Facebook
Despite efforts by NSW Ambulance paramedics to treat Mr. East, who hailed from New Zealand and was an alumnus of Harvard University, he could not be saved.
Mr East’s mother was greeted outside her apartment’s unit by a female friend on Monday after arriving in Australia from New Zealand
In response to the crash, the police established Strike Force Dunguid to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Zisi Kokotatsios, 63, was apprehended after presenting himself at Granville Police Station shortly after 11 am on Friday.
Mitch East, 28, was found critically injured on Fletcher St in Tamarama, near Bondi, just metres from his home. Picture: GoFundMe
He has been charged with several offenses including failing to stop and provide assistance after a vehicle collision resulting in death, reckless driving leading to death, negligent driving leading to death, and using a mobile phone while driving when not permitted.
Kokotatsios, from Bexley, was denied bail and is scheduled to appear before Parramatta Bail Court on Saturday.
According to his LinkedIn profile, Kokotatsios works as a real estate agent and previously served as a longtime Qantas engineer. Currently, he holds the position of senior director at First Impression Property Group.
Mitch East was described by his mother as a good person with a good heart.
Mr. East’s mother described her son as “a good person with a good heart,” expressing the profound grief of losing her only child.
The community has rallied support for Mr. East’s family, raising over $105,000 via GoFundMe to help alleviate financial burdens in the wake of his tragic passing.
Zisi Kokotatsios will face court on Saturday. Picture: Facebook
Tributes have poured in for Mr. East, with friends and acquaintances recalling his vibrant personality and kindness.
Whiritoa Lifeguard Service in New Zealand, where Mr. East was a valued member, expressed their condolences and highlighted his role as an inspiration to many young individuals within the surf club. They are considering ways to honor his memory within their community.
SOURCE: NEWS.COM.AU