Elderly Couple Stabbed in Rural Home Invasion; Homeowner Shoots Attacker

Torrington, New South Wales — An elderly couple is in critical but stable condition after a violent home invasion at their rural property in the early hours of Tuesday morning. The alleged attacker has been charged with two counts of wounding with intent to murder.

The Attack

Emergency services were called to the property shortly after midnight. Police allege that Joshua Dylan Trethewey, 34, entered the home and stabbed both victims with a knife.

• Keith Blessing, 75, sustained a stab wound to the stomach.
• Di Blessing, 72, was stabbed in the chest.

"During the confrontation, Keith Blessing retrieved a knife and wounded Trethewey," police said.

The alleged attacker then retreated to the verandah, at which point Blessing called Triple Zero. However, according to police, Trethewey attempted to re-enter the property.

The Homeowner's Response

It was at this moment that Keith Blessing shot Trethewey once with a registered long-arm firearm.

Trethewey was struck in the abdomen and later transported to Armidale Hospital under police guard. He is listed in serious but stable condition.

Investigation Underway

Police have confirmed that Trethewey has no extensive criminal history and is not known to the couple. The motive remains unclear, and investigators have reported that no items were stolen from the property.

"Individuals are entitled to use reasonable force to defend themselves," said Detective Superintendent Chris McKinnon, though he confirmed the use of force by Blessing will be investigated.

Trethewey has been formally charged with two counts of wounding with intent to murder.