Police Launch Strike Force After Violent Spate at Newcastle Unit Complex
New South Wales Police have established a dedicated strike force following a disturbing series of violent incidents at a single unit block in Hamilton South, Newcastle. The attacks, which occurred over a four-day period, have left multiple victims injured and prompted a major investigation into potential connections between the assaults.
Three Separate Incidents Spark Major Investigation
Strike Force Arnstone was formed after police responded to three separate violent incidents between Friday and Monday at the same residential complex. The coordinated investigation aims to determine whether these attacks are linked and identify those responsible.
The first incident occurred early Friday morning between 4:30am and 6:00am, when a 26-year-old woman was assaulted while sleeping in her unit. The victim suffered deep cuts to her face and hand, with police indicating the injuries were likely caused by "a large, bladed weapon." She sought medical treatment at John Hunter Hospital on Saturday, prompting initial police inquiries. Authorities note the woman has yet to provide a formal statement regarding the attack.
Escalating Violence Over Weekend
Later that same Friday evening, police were called to the same unit complex around 8:00pm following reports of a home invasion. According to NSW Police statements, a 44-year-old man was assaulted and robbed by three men armed with edged weapons. The assailants stole an undisclosed amount of cash and property before fleeing the scene. Paramedics treated the victim for lacerations and bruising before transporting him to John Hunter Hospital for further care.
The violence continued on Monday night when emergency services returned to the complex around 10:20pm. Officers discovered a 32-year-old man with serious lacerations to his back and head, injuries that police described as "consistent with a large bladed weapon." The victim was transported to John Hunter Hospital with serious injuries, though initial reports suggested he was hurt by an unknown assailant.
Community Concerns and Police Response
The concentration of violent incidents at one residential location within such a short timeframe has raised significant concerns within the Hamilton South community. Police have emphasized the seriousness of the attacks and their commitment to investigating all possible connections between the three separate events.
Strike Force Arnstone investigators are urging anyone with information about these incidents to come forward. Members of the public can contact Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 to provide any details that might assist the ongoing investigation.
The formation of a dedicated strike force underscores the severity with which police are treating these violent attacks, particularly given the use of bladed weapons and the targeting of residents within their own homes. The investigation continues as authorities work to establish patterns, motives, and potential suspects in these concerning incidents.
