Manhunt Underway After Machete Attack on Teen at Melbourne Dining Strip
A manhunt is currently underway following a violent attack on a teenager by a group armed with machetes at a bustling dining strip in Melbourne's southeast. The incident occurred around 7.45pm on Friday outside the Vanilla Lounge dessert bar at Eaton Mall in Oakleigh, sparking chaos and fear among diners.
Details of the Attack
Victoria Police have reported that a large group of offenders, all wearing balaclavas, approached people seated outside the dessert bar before assaulting an 18-year-old man from Malvern East. According to authorities, at least two of the offenders produced machetes during the assault, leading to a stabbing incident that left the victim with non-life-threatening injuries. He was promptly taken to hospital for treatment.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as the attack unfolded, with diners fleeing the area in panic. A second teenager was also involved in the incident but sustained no physical injuries, according to police statements.
Police Investigation and Community Response
Detectives from the Monash Crime Investigation Unit are actively investigating the stabbing, which they believe was a targeted attack. Police have indicated that the parties involved are known to each other, suggesting a premeditated motive behind the violence. The attackers fled the scene on foot and remain at large, prompting an ongoing manhunt.
To reassure the local community, Victoria Police have announced plans for increased patrols in the Oakleigh area. Authorities are urging anyone with information, CCTV footage, or dashcam recordings related to the incident to contact Crime Stoppers immediately to assist in the investigation.
This alarming event has raised concerns about public safety in popular dining precincts, highlighting the need for vigilance and community cooperation in combating such violent crimes.
