The case concerns the death of 24-year-old Lino Atem, who was fatally stabbed at a reserve on Haines Drive in Wyndham Vale on 10 January 2025. Prosecutors allege that a group of young people arrived at the park carrying weapons and attacked Lino and his friends. Lino died at the scene, while his brother and another friend were injured.

Police previously investigated whether the attack was a case of mistaken identity. The latest charges are a major development in the case, which has remained under investigation for almost two years. Seven people charged Three 17-year-old boys and four men aged 18, 18, 20 and 21 have been charged with manslaughter. The charges followed police raids across 15 properties in Melbourne, involving more than 160 detectives and officers, according to the report.

During court proceedings, prosecutors referred to DNA evidence recovered from a machete found at the scene and a beer bottle located inside a vehicle linked to the accused. CCTV footage and clothing are also expected to form part of the evidence.

Some of the accused teenagers are due to return to court for a committal hearing next month. Two of the teenagers were expected to apply for bail, while proceedings against the adult accused were also continuing.

Police have not ruled out further suspects as the investigation proceeds. The charges are allegations, and each accused person is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

The death has devastated Lino's family. His father has spoken publicly about losing two sons in separate violent incidents, calling for justice for his family.