Attack at Eaton Mall: Three Teenagers Charged After Machete Stabbing

A group of individuals wearing balaclavas and armed with machetes attacked diners at Eaton Mall in Oakleigh, Melbourne, on Friday evening. An 18-year-old man was stabbed and taken to hospital. Police have since arrested and charged three teenagers in connection with the incident.

Incident Details

At approximately 7:45 PM, a group of between eight and 12 individuals wearing balaclavas approached diners seated outside a business at Eaton Mall. According to police, at least two members of the group were carrying machetes.

The group entered the dining area outside the Vanilla Lounge, causing many diners to flee the location. A physical altercation occurred, during which an 18-year-old man from Malvern East was stabbed with a machete. A 16-year-old boy was also reportedly involved in the altercation but was not physically injured.

The alleged offenders fled the scene on foot. Police established a crime scene at the location.

"The outdoor dining area emptied quickly afterward. There was a significant amount of blood at the scene."
— Kay Garg, neighboring restaurant owner

Victim and Injuries

The 18-year-old victim received medical treatment at the scene and was transported to a hospital. Authorities described his injuries as non-life-threatening.

Arrests and Charges

Police raided three homes and arrested three boys: a 14-year-old and two 17-year-olds. They have been charged with:

• Intentionally causing serious injury in circumstances of gross violence
• Recklessly causing serious injury
• Assault with a weapon
• Violent disorder
• Committing an indictable offence while on bail
• Affray-related offences over an alleged incident in Oakleigh on April 8

The three teenagers are scheduled to appear before a children's court, where police will apply for remand.

Police Investigation

Detectives are treating the incident as a targeted attack and stated that the parties were known to each other. Police have not confirmed if the attack is gang-related. The weapons used have not been recovered.

Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Michael Hermans stated he had viewed CCTV footage of the incident. According to Assistant Commissioner Hermans, Victoria Police seized 17,000 edged weapons last year and 3,000 so far this year.

The investigation is ongoing, and further arrests are expected. Police stated they will conduct proactive patrols in the area.

"We are treating this as a targeted incident. The individuals involved were known to each other."
— Victoria Police

Community Response

Dimitri Damianos from the community group Greeks of Melbourne stated locals were gathering to support the business where the incident occurred.

Police Appeal

Authorities are requesting that any witnesses or individuals with information, dashcam, or CCTV footage contact Crime Stoppers online or by phone at 1800 333 000.