“Threatening a young shop attendant is unacceptable.”
A 30-year-old man, who allegedly robbed a Chinese restaurant while threatening a 14-year-old employee with a knife, was subdued by two diners after a violent struggle on Saturday evening.
Incident Details
Just before 6:30 PM, a man wearing a balaclava entered the Long Jetty Chinese Restaurant near The Entrance, NSW. He demanded money while threatening a 14-year-old employee with a knife.
Intervention and Injuries
Two male diners, both aged 55, intervened and subdued the alleged offender.
- One diner sustained stab wounds to his neck and was airlifted to a Sydney hospital in serious condition.
- The other suffered cuts to his hand and was later discharged from Gosford Hospital.
- The 14-year-old employee was not physically injured.
The quick and courageous actions of these two patrons prevented a far worse outcome.
Arrest and Charges
The alleged offender, Adrian Wargent, was arrested at the scene and taken to Wyong Police Station.
He has been charged with:
- Two counts of aggravated assault with intent to rob with wounding/grievous bodily harm
Wargent did not apply for bail, which was formally refused. He is scheduled to reappear in court in late July.
Police Statement
Superintendent Chad Gillies from the Tuggerah Lakes Police District described the act as "cowardly and shocking." He emphasized that threatening a young shop attendant is unacceptable and confirmed that police are providing support to the staff and community following the traumatic event.