'Nicest guy ever': Tributes flow for stuntman killed at Brisbane music video set
Tearful family and friends of a stunt man, who was shot dead while filming a music video in Brisbane, have gathered to pay tribute to the “nicest guy ever”.
Father-of-one Johann Ofner was shot and killed during a stunt for Australian band Bliss n Eso’s music clip on Monday afternoon.
“(Johann and his daughter) were just inseparable, you know,” friend Joel Hurrey said.
“He loved her to absolute bits.”
While family rally around Mr Ofner’s seven-year-old daughter, the 28-year-old’s partner has taken to social media to post a touching tribute.
“Today the love of my life was taken from me and I still can't believe it,” the post on Kati Garnett’s Instagram began.
“I don't know what I'm going to do without you, the best people are always taken from us you were a true Angel.
“I love you so so much forever and ever.”
Seven News understands a shotgun loaded with blanks, and not live ammunition, was fired about 1.5 metres away from Mr Ofner’s chest.
A full ballistics investigation remains underway with police still at the Brooklyn Standard bar scene, piecing together exactly what went wrong.
On Tuesday family and friends gathered at a park in North Burleigh, where Mr Ofner did most of his training, and left flowers and balloons.
A second memorial is being held on Tuesday night at a gym in Arundel, with Mr Ofner’s family thanking the community for their support.
Members of hip hop group Bliss n Eso paid tribute to Mr Ofner on Monday night.
“The three of us are extremely upset and shaken up by this and our hearts and prayers go out to the victim’s family and friends, as well as the cast and crew,” the group posted.
Haunting messages also remain on Mr Ofner’s Instagram story, showing images of the film set complete with guns, knives and wads of cash.
"Gun scene for Bliss n Eso," Mr Ofner wrote on a video of a handgun. Another image showed a retractable knife with the words: “faulty props”.
Heartbroken family and friends of Mr Ofner paid tribute to popular stuntman, describing him as “inspirational” and a “devoted, loving father”.
“RIP Johann Ofner you truly were an amazing person, so much passion and joy for what you loved. My heart goes out to your family and especially your daughter,” Peter Michaels wrote.
“You inspired me to be better. You had a kind heart and loving spirit and a rig that had every bloke on Burleigh Causeway needing to do a double take. Much love goes to all your family and friends at this difficult and confusing time. You will be missed but your legacy you created will live on forever. Love you bro,” JZ Raps said.
The Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance also offered its "deepest condolences" to Mr Ofner's family.
"This tragedy is a stark reminder that the screen industry is inherently dangerous and of the need for total vigilance about workplace safety at all times on set," a spokesperson said.
For the former carpenter, his career as a stuntman was about to skyrocket after making it through a yet-to-be-aired reality show that puts contestants through gruelling fitness and strength tests.
Police are now investigating how the incident occurred.
News break - January 24
