A 13-year-old boy has been charged with attempted murder for allegedly stabbing a supermarket employee in a shopping center west of Brisbane.
The incident occurred at the Yamanto Central Shopping Centre around 5:25 PM on Monday. Queensland police arrived after reports of the stabbing. The victim, a 63-year-old woman, was rushed to Princess Alexandra Hospital and is in critical condition in the intensive care unit... Continue reading here ▶
Detective Inspector Michael Manago reported that the boy was stopped and held by people at the scene and security staff. He commended their courage, labeling the attack on the unsuspecting worker as shocking and unacceptable in today’s society.
A witness, Tshering Dema, who was working at the center, described hearing screams and seeing the knife in the woman’s back, which left her frightened and shaking.
The police clarified that the boy and the woman did not know each other, and they believe no one else was involved. The investigation will include how the teenager got the knife.
The shopping center, including the supermarket, has since reopened. Despite the recent events, customers returned, though some expressed nervousness.
Superintendent Kylie Rigg announced plans for increased police patrols in the area to reassure the public.
Coles has also stated that they will provide counseling to staff affected by the incident, emphasizing support for the injured employee and her family.
Authorities are seeking witnesses or anyone with video evidence to aid the investigation.
The case was briefly addressed in Ipswich Children’s Court, where the accused was absent, and no bail was requested. The hearing has been postponed to February 25.
