Family of first victim shocked to learn of Hemmings murder

Irene Mazzucco was engaged to Tony Fogato when she was killed by Pauesi Brown. Photo / Supplied

An Australian family has learned that the man who killed their daughter and sister went on to stab Austin Hemmings.

The Herald revealed yesterday that Irene Mazzucco was stabbed to death by Pauesi Brown in Australia in 1992. Brown pleaded guilty to the murder of the good samaritan, Austin Hemmings, on Monday.

Ms Mazzucco's sister, Federica, said she was unaware Brown had killed again and would like to speak to Mr Hemmings' family.

The Hemmings have indicated that they are open to the idea. Ms Mazzucco said Brown worked at a lingerie factory in Brunswick.

He met 24-year-old Irene Mazzucco while out on the town with a group of friends.

Ms Mazzucco said Brown became obsessive and stalked her sister, who was engaged to be married to Tony Fogato the following year.

Brown used the name Povalu Nonu while in Australia and later changed his name to Pauesi Leofa Brown by deed poll.

Ms Mazzucco said Brown was "always after" her sister, despite restraining orders being issued by the courts. "The first time he saw her, he loved her," Ms Mazzucco said.

She said one night Brown went to Ms Mazzucco's workplace and waited outside.

Ms Mazzucco said she does not know exactly how it happened but Brown turned up at the police station a short time later.

"He drove her car to the police station and said: I've killed my girlfriend."

Ms Mazzucco said police found the body of her sister in her car. She had been punched in the face and had died of multiple stab wounds.

Brown was initially charged with murder but the charge was downgraded to manslaughter and he served eight years in prison. He was deported back to New Zealand after serving his sentence.

Brown had also been jailed three times for knife attacks in New Zealand before he attacked and killed Mr Hemmings in Mills Lane in 2008.

Mr Hemmings had stepped between Brown and Diane Nonu after Ms Nonu called out for help. Brown later stabbed Hemmings in the chest.

Brown will be sentenced for the murder of Mr Hemmings and the assault on Ms Nonu next month.

Ms Mazzucco said he should get the electric chair.

"He should not be alive. He is not a person to go into the public," Ms Mazzucco said.