A 36-year-old man accused of fatally stabbing Tongan man Sosefo Leger on an East Auckland bus faces life imprisonment if convicted of murder, and up to 14 years for an additional wounding charge.
Police said Leger, 59, died from a knife wound to his torso during the incident in Glen Innes on Monday, 8.
A second victim, aged 41, suffered serious injuries to his hand and required surgery.
The accused appeared in court recently, charged with murder and wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
He has been remanded in custody with interim name suppression and is due to reappear in January.
Police described the attacks as unprovoked and said the victims did not know their alleged attacker.
The homicide investigation revealed the attack occurred on a public bus, sparking renewed concerns about passenger safety.
Commenters on social media said everyone should feel safe using public transport.
One community leader wrote:
“I am sorry to see this happen. I have raised safety within council with the CEO and written to the Minister of Corrections for action in making positive change towards a safer community.”
Tributes for Leger have poured in online, describing him as a “nice, humble guy.”
A mourner posted:
“Attended the funeral today on behalf of our communities to pay our respects for the tragic loss of Sosefo Leger who was killed in Glen Innes. Sincere condolences to his family and friends.”
Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack.
