An Indian immigrant has been charged with murder after allegedly stabbing his wife to death in their Melbourne home.
IT worker Lavanya Chappa, 39, was found dead with multiple stab wounds at a property on Delatite Court in Vermont at about 10pm on Tuesday.
Her husband Srinivas Achanta, also 39, was arrested at the scene. The couple’s two children, aged seven and 13, were both home at the time but were not physically injured.
Mr Achanta was taken to hospital under police guard, and on Thursday night was charged with one count of murder.
He appeared at Melbourne Magistrates Court on Friday, where the prosecution requested 12 weeks to prepare a brief of evidence, and he will face court again in November, the Herald Sun reported.
Family and friends have since started a GoFundMe to raise money for Ms Chappa’s funeral and to support her young children.
“Lavanya was a loving mother, a cherished daughter, a devoted family member, a valued colleague, and a dear friend to so many,” Govind Gudivada wrote.
“She worked as a Software Quality Analyst at Civica Asia Pacific, where she was respected for her professionalism, dedication, and kind-hearted nature.
“She will be remembered for her warmth, compassion, and the positive impact she had on everyone fortunate enough to know her.”
The couple, who came to Australia from India, moved into the suburb two years ago and their children attended local neighbourhood block parties, 7News reported.
Header image: Left, Srinivas Achanta (7News). Right, Lavanya Chappa (GoFundMe).
