Sad revelation after father found dead while walking dogs

A Victorian father of two who was found dead in the early hours of Friday morning after he failed to return home from a late-night dog walk has been remembered as a “loving husband, son, brother, uncle and friend”.

It’s understood Geelong man Paul Grapsas, 40, left his house at around 10pm on Thursday to walk the family dog and did not return home. After the pet found its way back to the property alone, Mr Grapsas’ wife Jessica walked outside when she found his lifeless body beside his car at 4am the following morning.

According to Victoria Police, Mr Grapsas had suffered “significant” head injuries and, though his cause of death remains under investigation, it is being treated as suspicious.

Possible motives for suspected attack explored

Detectives are investigating the theory that Mr Grapsas was attacked during an attempted carjacking, The Age reported, though that has yet to be established.

The father, an avid sportsman and beloved member of the community, was expecting his third child in the coming months.

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In a public statement issued to media today, Mr Grapsas’ heartbroken family implored anyone with information to come forward to help piece together the puzzle of the bizarre tragedy.

'Loving husband, father, son'

“Paul Grapsas was a loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend. A man of integrity who was happiest when surrounded by his family, friends and church community,” the statement said.

“He was a devoted father of two beautiful young children and expecting a third on the way, and had just received a promotion at his workplace. Known and respected in the community, a skilled sportsman who loved golf, fishing and video games”.

The family said “Paul will be dearly and desperately missed” by all those he loved and who loved him.

“Please respect the privacy for the family during this tragic time,” they said.

“We urge anyone with information between Thursday evening and early Friday morning to contact Victoria Police.”

It’s understood Mr Grapsas’ body was found merely 200 metres away from his home on Malone Street.

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