UPDATE: A woman was brutally slashed by a knife-wielding attacker after seeking help at a closed police station in Reservoir, Melbourne, early Saturday morning. This shocking incident underscores the urgent safety concerns raised by the temporary closure of police stations across Victoria due to staffing shortages.
At approximately 2:40 AM, a 32-year-old woman and her 22-year-old passenger were stationary in their car at the intersection of Mahoneys and Edgars roads when a man approached and began damaging the vehicle. In a desperate attempt to seek assistance, the women drove to the nearby Reservoir Police Station only to discover it was closed and unstaffed.
As the 32-year-old exited the car, the assailant—who had followed them—produced a knife and threatened her. He demanded the car keys, and when she refused to comply, he inflicted a superficial cut to her upper arm before fleeing the scene in his vehicle. Authorities confirmed that the women immediately drove to a nearby shopping center to call emergency services.
Authorities report that police are investigating the attack as an assault and attempted aggravated carjacking. The 32-year-old victim received treatment at the scene for her minor injury, while her passenger was unharmed.
A police spokesperson revealed, “It appears the offender is known to the victim, and the investigation remains ongoing.” This incident has raised serious questions about public safety, especially as forty-three police stations, including Reservoir, have slashed their reception hours since 2023 due to ongoing staffing issues, a move initially described by the police force as temporary.
The community is understandably shaken, and local authorities are urging anyone with information to step forward. This alarming attack highlights the critical need for accessible police services and the safety of the public in vulnerable situations.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops. Get alerts on breaking news as it happens. Sign up for our Breaking News Alert.
