The Darwin community is in mourning following the death of local supermarket owner Linford Feick, 71, who was fatally stabbed after confronting an alleged shoplifter at his Nightcliff store, Territory Friendly Grocer, last Wednesday.
Police arrested an 18-year-old man the same evening, who has since been charged with murder.
Linford’s daughter, Joanne Feick, paid tribute to her father on social media, describing him as a kind, sincere man devoted to his family, staff, and community. She thanked Nightcliff residents for their overwhelming support, saying the family was deeply touched by the messages of love they had received.
“Dad always stood for kindness and supporting local,” she wrote, adding that their family and the store’s staff were heartbroken but grateful for the community’s solidarity during such a dark time.
“Our hearts are breaking,” she said, calling the incident an “unjust tragedy” and acknowledging the difficult road ahead for the family.
Community in Shock
Since the attack, locals have gathered outside the store, laying flowers and remembering Mr Feick as a cherished figure in the neighbourhood. Customers described him as a “true legend” and a “gentleman” who was always ready with a warm smile and a friendly chat.
Nightcliff business owner Katarina Tererakis said the tragedy had left many feeling unsafe and disillusioned. She explained that her own business had faced regular disturbances without sufficient support and expressed fears for the future of her family in Darwin.
“This used to be a beautiful city,” she said. “Now every day feels dangerous. Linford’s death has made many question whether it’s still a safe place to call home.”
Longtime resident Terry McEnroe reflected on the loss of what he called a community “meeting place”. While he said he was shocked by the attack, he admitted that safety concerns had been growing for some time.
“You don’t even feel safe walking during the day anymore,” he said, urging for solutions that address the root causes of violence rather than relying solely on incarceration.
Calls for Unity and Change
At a candlelight vigil held on Thursday night, regular customer Ray Brodie spoke warmly of Mr Feick, describing him as “a pillar of society” and expressing his sorrow for the family’s loss.
Local MP Kat McNamara spent the day speaking with constituents, noting widespread grief and a growing sense of fear among retail and hospitality workers.
“People are absolutely distraught,” she said, adding that Linford’s store was more than just a business — it was a beloved part of the community.
Ms McNamara warned that increasing fear was causing divisions in the community and that a deeper effort was needed to restore a sense of belonging.
“If we lose that connection, we lose what makes our communities strong,” she said.
A Life Remembered
Linford Feick’s death has left a gaping hole in the Nightcliff community, where he was known not just as a shopkeeper, but as a friend, neighbour, and steadfast supporter of local businesses.
In the face of unimaginable grief, his family, staff, and loyal customers have vowed to honour his legacy by keeping his spirit of kindness, generosity, and community alive.
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