Bus victim named as Sefo Leger amid outpouring of tributes

Police have formally identified the man who died following Monday’s fatal stabbing on a bus in East Auckland. He was Sefo Leger of Wai o Taiki Bay.

The 59-year-old was one of two men allegedly stabbed at separate times on a bus travelling from Glen Innes towards Ōrakei that evening.

Adrian Pani, 36, has been charged with Leger's murder and grievous assault. He appeared in the Auckland District Court on Wednesday and has been remanded in custody.

Detective Inspector Glenn Baldwin expressed his condolences in a statement: “Our investigation team extend our deepest sympathies to Mr Leger’s whānau for their loss, especially at this time of the year.

"This senseless crime has impacted many across the community and our thoughts are with you.”

Police also confirmed that Leger’s family have requested privacy while they grieve.

Community and family tributes

While police have not commented on the victim’s background, family and friends have shared tributes online.

A nephew from Tonga described Leger as a “gentle giant” and a “loving father” on social media. Friends also remembered him as “humble, big-hearted, and always ready to help anyone in need".

Neighbour John Clarken told Stuff Leger was a lovely, gentle, quiet man and a "nice fella" and that his wife had died of cancer. "It is shocking."

Sefo Leger, left, pictured with loved ones. Friends and community members have shared tributes online following his death. Photo/Facebook/Anthony Afu

A local store owner also told Stuff about how he tried to stop Leger bleeding with some t-shirts, but added that there was too much blood.

Flowers and messages have appeared near the site of the incident in Glen Innes, reflecting the shock and sorrow felt in the community.

The incident occurred aboard a number 76 bus travelling from Glen Innes towards Ōrākei on Monday evening.

Police say the suspect boarded the bus at Apirana Avenue and attacked the victim.

A second man was also injured in the incident but remains in stable condition.

Police located and arrested the 36-year-old suspect in Auckland’s CBD the following afternoon.

Police at the scene of a homicide investigation after attacks on an East Auckland bus. Photo/RNZ/Marika Khabazi

Auckland Transport says it is saddened by the incident. Stacey van der Putten, AT’s director of public transport and active modes, says in a statement that their thoughts are with the victims, their families, and the bus driver who was on board at the time.

She says all AT buses are fitted with CCTV, and the agency is committed to working with partners and communities “to turn the tide on violence and aggression” on public transport.