A 20-year-old man has died in hospital after being stabbed in central Geelong, prompting a local MP to demand urgent action on violence in the city's entertainment precinct.
Police responded to reports of a man with a stab wound on Little Malop Street at about 5.30am on Sunday. The victim was taken to Geelong Hospital in critical condition but later died. Two other men involved in the incident self-presented at a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Homicide detectives are investigating, and a 550-metre stretch of Little Malop Street has been cordoned off. The area is a popular cultural and culinary hub, but local business owners say it has become dangerous.
Restaurant owner Peter Smith said the street had become “derelict” over the past two years, with frequent assaults and drunk or drug-affected people. He claimed police often failed to respond to calls and urged the council to increase police presence.
Cafe owner Tania Anastasopoulos said the incident was “scary” and highlighted concerns for young people going out at night. Ice cream shop supervisor Isabella Jordan said the heavy police presence would deter families from visiting the area.
Police are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
