The shocking murder of Universal Store CEO Greg Josephson has reverberated through the Brisbane community and beyond.

At a Glance

• Greg Josephson, 58, was allegedly murdered by a 15-year-old at his Brisbane mansion.
• The teenager has been charged with murder and the case is ongoing.
• Josephson was a well-known figure in the Australian retail industry, co-founding Universal Store in 1999.
• The incident has stirred deep emotions within the local community, impacting many.

A Community in Mourning

Greg Josephson, 58, a pioneer in Australian retail and co-founder of Universal Store, met a tragic end on June 26, 2025. Josephson was hosting a party at his mansion in Brisbane’s affluent Clayfield area, where he welcomed approximately 30 teenagers. Amidst the gathering, a tense altercation unfolded between Josephson and a 15-year-old boy, known to the CEO, resulting in Josephson’s fatal stabbing. The teenager was detained by police soon after, charged with murder as the community reels from the news.

Watch a report: Australian CEO Greg Josephson stabbed to death at a party

The peaceful suburb of Clayfield hardly suggested an impending tragedy that evening, with neighbors largely unaware of the severity of the unfolding situation. Josephson’s life was brought to a horrifying halt just as he was planning to relocate his family. His Clayfield home, purchased in 2016 and meticulously renovated, stood as a testament to his success and vision.

An Unfathomable Loss

The business and local communities are grappling with the impact of this tragedy. Known for his significant contributions to the retail sector, Josephson left an indelible mark. Co-founding Universal Store in 1999, he played a pivotal role until 2018, growing the company into a preferred destination for youth fashion. His death leaves a void not only professionally but personally, as colleagues and friends remember him as a “gentle soul.”

Initial investigations suggest that no one else was involved in the violent altercation, affirming that the teenager, who has cooperated with authorities, acted alone. The community’s anguish is palpable, with many young attendees now aiding the police in their inquiries.

Future Preventive Measures

In the aftermath of this heinous crime, police continue to search for additional evidence, seeking CCTV and dash cam footage. A heartfelt plea for community assistance underscores the ongoing investigation’s importance. Meanwhile, legislation put into effect in September 2024 forbidding minors from purchasing knives, adds context to this issue, prompting renewed discussions on youth safety and reform.

Josephson’s ambition was to relocate to Noosa with his family; this aspiration, along with his personal journey, has been curtailed. His home, once a symbol of achievement, is now a somber reminder of unfulfilled dreams and a great loss to the Australian business scene.