Belmont man charged with Paul Grapsas’ death

Police have charged an 18-year-old Belmont man following the death of Paul Grapsas. (Jena Carr)

The Police Homicide Squad has charged a man following the death of family man Paul Grapsas in Geelong last week.

An 18-year-old Belmont man was arrested in Ocean Grove on Tuesday, September 19, and interviewed by police this morning, Wednesday, September 20.

He has been charged with the murder of Mr Grapsas, 40, and faced the Geelong Magistrates Court on Wednesday afternoon.

Police said Mr Grapsas left home around 11pm on September 14 to walk his dog and was found dead by his wife at around 4am outside their Western Beach Road home on Friday, September 15.

Police said they believe Mr Grapsas had been assaulted as he was found with severe head injuries and was dead by the time he was located.

Mr Grapsas’ family previously released a statement describing him as a loving father and devoted community member. He leaves behind his wife, Jessica Grapsas, and three children.

“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 family 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.”

Investigators ask anyone living or driving through the area who may have CCTV or dash cam footage to contact police.

Anyone with information about the incident should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.