The AFL has paid tribute to Jesse Baird and his partner Luke Davies, who were allegedly murdered in Sydney last month.
Players from Melbourne Demons and Sydney Swans, along with umpires and officials stood in silence at the SCG as a mark of respect.
Baird began goal umpiring in 2011 in the Northern Football and Netball League before moving to Queensland in 2017 and made his debut on the AFL umpiring list in March 2020.
The AFL said Baird was "a popular and respected member of our AFL umpiring family". Davies was a lifelong Sydney Swans supporter.
Umpires, as well as players at the match, also wore black armbands.
"Jesse will be fondly remembered for his vibrant, fun-loving personality, his professionalism and his commitment to the next generation of young umpires," a ground announcer said.
"Most importantly, he'll be remembered for the great, caring person that he was.
“The entire AFL family extend our deepest sympathy to both Jesse and Luke’s friends and family.
"Please pause for a moment while we pay our respects."
New South Wales Police will allege Baird and his partner Davies were killed by Senior Constable Beau Lamarre-Condon, who had previously had an intimate relationship with Baird.
Police allege Lamarre-Condon used his service firearm to kill the pair. They will allege Baird was the target and that Davies was killed only because he was with Baird.
Police bosses are now under fire themselves, as tributes and tears flow for Jesse Baird and Luke Davies. (Source: 1News)
Lamarre-Condon then allegedly moved their bodies to a private property near Bungonia, two hours away from Sydney, before returning soon after and relocating them to a second property.
The bodies of Baird and Davies were later found in surfboard bags, dumped along a fence line near the entrance to the property.
After refusing to assist police for days, Lamerre-Condon allegedly drew a map showing the location of the pair’s bodies after receiving advice from new legal counsel.
Lawyers for the accused said they would investigate mental health factors for the case.
Constable Lamarre-Condon is due next to appear before court on April 23.
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