Ex-boyfriend previously charged over the shooting death of Gold Coast influencer to testify in coronial inquest

Ex-boyfriend previously charged over the shooting death of Gold Coast influencer to testify in coronial inquest

As a seasoned investigator with years of experience in unraveling complex cases, I find it crucial that the truth be revealed and justice be served, regardless of the circumstances surrounding the death of Gold Coast influencer Ivona Jovanovic. The coroner’s declaration to not target Christos Panagakos, who was previously charged with her manslaughter, is a prudent and necessary step in this investigation.


The coroner conducting an investigation into the death of Ivona Jovanovic clarified that the intention behind the coronial inquest is not to single out or focus on the individual who had earlier been accused of her manslaughter. Instead, it serves to gather facts and uncover details surrounding her unfortunate demise.

In 2019, an emergency call was made to a residence in Highland Park due to reports of a 27-year-old woman, Ms. Jovanovic, who had suffered a gunshot wound to her chest.

She was declared dead by the time she arrived by ambulance to Gold Coast University Hospital.

At a pre-inquest conference into her death held in Brisbane on Wednesday, the court was told

Christos Panagakos, a former acquaintance and confidant of Ms. Jovanovic, had earlier been accused of her manslaughter.

The pair had been in a relationship before the shooting.

The counsel helping the coroner, Kim Bryson, explained to the court that the prosecution eventually chose to stop pursuing their case against Mr. Panagakos, leading to the dismissal of his charges.

Ms Bryson stated that, upon his return, Mr Panagakos was first interrogated by the authorities at the residence where Miss Jovanovic was fatally wounded.

Ex-boyfriend previously charged over the shooting death of Gold Coast influencer to testify in coronial inquest

Ex-boyfriend previously charged over the shooting death of Gold Coast influencer to testify in coronial inquest

She mentioned that he informed the authorities that he had arranged plans for the evening when she got shot, which included dining out with several companions. However, he declined to disclose the identities of these friends or the specifics of their plans.

As a devoted admirer, I’d put it this way: I was stationed on the lower level, my sanctuary where my dear mother resided. Suddenly, a deafening boom echoed through the house, sending shivers down my spine. Intrigued and alarmed, I found myself ascending the stairs to unravel the mystery behind that unsettling sound.

According to Mr. Panagakos, he discovered Ms. Jovanovic on the ground and she appeared unresponsive.

He also told police he saw a ‘handgun with a long barrel’ lying next to Ms Jovanovic.

Ms. Bryson stated that he told the police he had departed the area prior to their arrival, as he wished to avoid being held responsible for the incident.

Ex-boyfriend previously charged over the shooting death of Gold Coast influencer to testify in coronial inquest

The court learned that multiple individuals had been questioned by the police during the comprehensive probe.

‘Some of whom were co-operative, some of whom were not,’ Ms Bryson said.

‘Other persons identified as people of interest refused to provide police statements.’

The court was told a bag had also reportedly been ‘dropped’ at the home.

Dr. Bryson stated that an autopsy concluded that Ms. Jovanovic passed away due to a gunshot wound in her chest, yet the distance from which the firearm was discharged remained undetermined.

She said it was in the public interest to hold an inquest into Ms Jovanovic’s death.

As a diligent follower, I’d like to express that during this inquiry, my primary focus is unequivocally to uncover the facts surrounding Ms. Jovanovic’s passing.

He stated the role of the coroner wasn’t to prosecute but instead to find answers.

Mr MacKenzie stated, “My primary worry has two interconnected aspects. First, I aim to discover the reason behind the death, and second, I want to ensure that this isn’t an attempt to reopen a case that had previously been dropped.

‘The inquiry regarding this case remains ongoing, and it’s crucial to avoid giving the impression that Christos Panagakos is being specifically targeted. His potential involvement, however it might eventually be determined, should not appear suspect from a criminal standpoint.’

Ex-boyfriend previously charged over the shooting death of Gold Coast influencer to testify in coronial inquest

Nevertheless, Mr. MacKenzie emphasized the need for Mr. Panagakos to have a legal representative, considering his past charges related to the death of Ms. Jovanovic.

Despite this, it’s crucial for him to understand that evidence will be presented against him. In terms of fairness, he should also have a chance to respond to these allegations, Mr MacKenzie explained.

We’ve learned that a lawyer was supposedly ready to represent him, yet we haven’t received any updates or communication from that attorney.

To ensure everyone understands the objective of this inquest, I feel it necessary to state my intention from the start. We are deeply committed to ensuring fairness, specifically for Mr. Panagakos, and upholding the principles of natural justice.

The coronial inquest will be held from November 18 and is expected to run for three days.

16 individuals are set to testify, among them being Mr. Panagakos, who has consistently claimed his lack of guilt throughout the proceedings.

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2024-10-10 00:04

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