Anthony O'Donohue, 48, appeared briefly in the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Saturday charged with killing Manmeet Alisher at a Moorooka bus stop the day before.
Lawyer Adam Magill told media he had concerns for O'Donohue's mental health and his client was feeling "numb" as he tried to come to terms with what happened.
Outside court, Adam Magill described the matter as "very heinous" and said he did not expect his client to apply for bail.
"His major concern as far as I'm concerned at this point in time is his mental health, that needs to be assessed," he said.
"He's numb at this stage ... I don't think he's feeling anything at this point in time."
Police Commissioner Ian Stewart said there was nothing to suggest the attack was racially motivated, but Mr Alisher's brother told the ABC that he fears it may be [racially motivated].
A community vigil/Ardas ceremony has been held at the Brisbane site where Manmeet Alisher was burnt to death.
Meanwhile, QLD Police have urged community to keep calm and to refrain from making provocative and inflammatory statements in regards to Manmeet’s murder.
