BRISBANE, Australia – Police in Queensland continue to search for the person responsible for the fatal stabbing of a 70-year-old grandmother at a shopping center in Ipswich, west of Brisbane. The attack, labeled as “abhorrent” by Premier Steven Miles, took place in front of the woman’s six-year-old granddaughter, prompting a widespread manhunt for the perpetrator.
According to authorities, the woman was stabbed in the chest in what appeared to be a violent robbery. The incident occurred in the car park of the Redbank Plains Shopping Centre on Saturday evening, leading to a distressing scene as police arrived to attend to the injured woman.
In the aftermath of the attack, detectives have seized a vehicle of interest that was driven away from the shopping center following the incident and later found in Springfield Lakes. The car is currently undergoing forensic examination, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The vicious nature of the robbery has shocked both the local community and seasoned law enforcement officers, with Detective Acting Superintendent Heath McQueen emphasizing the commitment to apprehending the offender and conducting a thorough investigation. Premier Miles echoed this sentiment, condemning the attack and assuring that the case is being taken very seriously.
In the wake of the incident, tributes have poured in for the victim, with flowers being left at the scene by members of the community. Additionally, local residents have expressed their shock and concern, noting the frequency of crimes targeting women in the area.
Among the witnesses to the tragic event was a local medical doctor, Ademola Afolabi, who was the first to respond to the victim’s aid. Despite his efforts to administer first aid, the woman tragically did not survive.
As the police continue their search, the local community and authorities are rallying behind the family of the victim, calling for justice and an end to such senseless acts of violence.