Narre Warren South Tragedy: Brothers Accused of Fatal School Attack Face Court Amid DNA Delays

Two brothers accused of the murder of their stepfather following an alleged violent assault outside a Narre Warren South primary school last month have appeared in court, with revelations that crucial DNA and forensic testing could extend for up to three months.

Connor Harnett, 21, and Liam Harnett, 22, are facing murder charges in connection with the death of Andre Szep, 63. Mr. Szep succumbed to his injuries a week after the alleged attack, which occurred in front of parents and students at Strathaird Primary School.

The incident, which unfolded around 3:15 pm on June 12 during the busy afternoon pick-up period, allegedly saw Mr. Szep subjected to a severe beating, reportedly involving an object. He was rushed to hospital in critical condition, where he remained for a week before his passing.

Initially, both brothers were charged with recklessly causing serious injury and remanded in custody while Mr. Szep, a resident of Clyde, was hospitalised. However, these charges were subsequently upgraded to murder following his death.

During a brief appearance via video link in the Melbourne Magistrates' Court today, the prosecution described Mr. Szep's death as a "tragic murder." The court was informed that investigators require up to three months to finalise comprehensive DNA and forensic testing related to the case. Furthermore, police are still actively searching for unspecified missing physical evidence pertinent to the investigation, with the exact nature of this evidence yet to be publicly disclosed.

Connor Harnett, appearing from custody dressed in a dark green jumper, listened intently to the proceedings. He was observed clasped-handed, repeatedly shaking his head throughout the hearing. Magistrate Stephen Ballek instructed police to provide a summary of their prospective DNA evidence within the next week, as the court also heard that investigators are still awaiting the complete results of a post-mortem examination.

Liam Harnett also made a brief separate appearance via video link. Dressed in a khaki bomber jacket, he sat looking directly ahead as Magistrate Ballek reiterated the same instructions to prosecutors concerning the ongoing investigation.

The alleged fatal assault, witnessed by numerous parents and students, has sent shockwaves through the local Narre Warren South community. The Harnett brothers are scheduled to return to court for a committal hearing on November 11.