A Melbourne woman who was fatally stabbed in her home last week has been remembered by family as a loving mother and dear friend.
Homicide detectives allege 39-year-old mother-of-two Lavanya Chappa was murdered in her Vermont home in Melbourne’s east on July 7.
The ABC understands members of Ms Chappa’s family arrived in Australia from India overnight.
An online crowdfunding page set up by Ms Chappa’s cousin Govind Gudivada has now raised more than $47,000.
In a statement posted to the page, Mr Gudivada said his cousin would be remembered for her “warmth, compassion and the positive impact she had on everyone fortunate enough to know her”.
“Lavanya was a loving mother, a cherished daughter, a devoted family member, a valued colleague, and a dear friend to so many,” the statement said.
“She will be remembered for her warmth, compassion, and the positive impact she had on everyone fortunate enough to know her.
“Above all, Lavanya was a devoted mother to her beloved children.
“They now face an unimaginable future without their mother’s comforting presence, guidance, unconditional love, and the countless dreams she held for them.”
Mr Gudivada said Ms Chappa worked in the tech sector as a software quality analyst, and was respected by colleagues for her “professionalism, dedication, and kind-hearted nature”.
A 39-year-old man has now been charged over Lavanya Chappa’s murder. (Supplied)
A 39-year-old man Vermont man, who police believe was known to Ms Chappa, has now been charged with murder over her death.
Police said two children who were in the house at the time were not physically injured.
