A Frankston family, reeling from the sudden and tragic death of their three-year-old son, has been dealt another devastating blow after their beloved caravan was stolen from their home. The theft occurred just one day after the little boy, Merson, passed away from a sudden cardiac arrest.
A Final Holiday Remembered
Owners Mo and Penny Melville, who run the local Momentum Café, are desperately pleading for the return of their white 1976 York Caravan. The vehicle holds profound sentimental value as it contains cherished memories from their final family holiday with their son. "This is extremely sentimental to us after the most extreme tragedy parents can go through the day before," Mo Melville expressed on social media.
The couple's son, Merson, has been described as a "bright, happy, superhero-loving boy who adored his big sister Sassika and filled every room with joy." A GoFundMe page established to support the family stated, "His absence has left an unimaginable ache in the hearts of all who knew him."
How the Caravan Was Stolen
The brazen theft took place on November 2 at approximately 11:30 pm, while the caravan was parked on Karingal Dr in Frankston, in southeast Melbourne. According to Mr. Melville, two cars were involved in the crime.
CCTV footage captured the moment a black car reversed into the driveway. A person got out, attached the caravan, and towed it away. A second vehicle is believed to have acted as a lookout, following behind as the caravan was stolen.
The timing of the theft has sent shockwaves through the local community, with many expressing outrage that a grieving family could be targeted in such a manner.
A Community's Plea for its Return
In a direct appeal shared by the family and their café, the community is being asked to check any CCTV or dashcam footage from the area around the time of the incident. The message also makes a heartfelt plea to the thieves themselves.
The family has promised that the caravan can be returned anonymously, with "no questions asked" and no charges pursued. Their primary wish is simply to have their precious memories back.
The distinctive caravan can be identified by the following features:
- White 1976 York model
- Blue mid-stripe
- Custom drawbar
- MacPac bike rack
- Registration: 44135B
Victoria Police are investigating the incident and have urged anyone with information to come forward. Merson's funeral is scheduled to be held at Saint Lazarus Chapel on November 26.
