Perth father killed in alleged attack at his own bar in Thailand

A Perth father who lost his six-month-old daughter in the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami has been killed in Thailand.

Businessman Peter Heppel was allegedly attacked as he celebrated his 57th birthday at Melina's Monkey House and Whale Bar, the restaurant he owns in Krabi, east of Phuket.

9News understands he was confronted by the husband of a former employee over a pay dispute and allegedly attacked with a knife.

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The "legend" of the North Beach Football Club played in the 1990 premiership and kicked more than 70 career goals.

Heppel was described as a "larger than life character" who "lived life to the fullest" by friend Craig Dalton from the club.

"Hepps was a very well liked and respected person, a very generous fun-loving friend to many," Dalton said.

"He loved to share his Krabi resort with family and friends. He always ensured you were well looked after."

A 24-year-old Thai man is in police custody.

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