A 43-year-old man has been charged following a series of alleged violent assaults that left six people injured in the Perth suburb of Bassendean on Tuesday afternoon.
Violent Spree Across Library and Shopping Precinct
Police allege the man embarked on a 30-minute assault spree starting at the Bassendean Memorial Library on Old Perth Road. The incident reportedly began around 3:30 PM on Tuesday, 27 May 2025. According to authorities, the man first became involved in a confrontation with a 73-year-old male library patron. The situation escalated, resulting in the older man allegedly being assaulted.
The disturbance then spilled outside. It is alleged the man proceeded to assault a 46-year-old woman who was nearby. The violent rampage did not stop there. Police state the man then moved to a nearby shopping precinct on Old Perth Road, where he is accused of assaulting four more people in quick succession.
Police Response and Arrest
Officers from the Western Australia Police Force were called to the scene following multiple reports from the public. They located and arrested the 43-year-old suspect a short time later. All six alleged victims received medical attention for their injuries at the scene.
The man, who is from the Bayswater area, was taken into custody. He has since been charged with six counts of common assault. Police confirmed the man was refused bail and is scheduled to appear before the Perth Magistrates Court on Wednesday, 28 May 2025.
Community Shocked by Brazen Attacks
The series of alleged attacks in broad daylight has unsettled the local Bassendean community. The library and adjacent shops are central hubs for residents, making the incidents particularly alarming. Local authorities have reassured the public that this appears to be an isolated incident and there is no ongoing threat to community safety.
Investigations into the precise circumstances surrounding the assaults are continuing. Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incidents or has any further information, particularly mobile phone footage, to contact Crime Stoppers.
