BY IAN CROUCH
The Shortland community is in mourning after the tragic death of much-loved local resident Bob Palmer.
The 54-year-old was walking his dog on Sandgate Road at about 8.00pm on Saturday when it's alleged he became involved in an altercation with 24-year-old Zack Mavin, who police say attempted to rob the Metro Service Station at knifepoint after an earlier unsuccessful attempt at the nearby 7-11.
Mr Palmer, who is not known to Mavin, was allegedly stabbed in the stomach and died at the scene.
Acting on information, police went to a nearby address where Mavin was arrested.
He faced Newcastle Local Court on Sunday charged with murder and was refused bail to reappear today.
The Police Prosecutor told the court there was nothing to explain the behavior of the accused and the incident "was entirely unprovoked".
Bobby Palmer was a stalwart of the Shortland Rugby League Club where he devoted thousands hours of volunteer service.
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| Bob Palmer was a much-loved and respected member of the Shortland community |
