A tragic incident unfolded in Edgeworth, NSW, where a 13-year-old girl, who recently arrived in Australia for a study tour, was denied bail following the stabbing death of her 14-year-old classmate. The victim was discovered with a stab wound to her torso at a residence on Monday and, despite receiving immediate medical attention, succumbed to her injuries during surgery at John Hunter Hospital.
Both girls were exchange students living with a host family and attending Newcastle Waldorf School as part of a tour from China. The school co-principals, Peter Muddle and Tracey Ashton, expressed their shock and sorrow over the incident, emphasising their focus on providing care and counselling for students, their families, and those affected by the tragedy.
Muddle and Ashton noted that the exchange program was organised by an external tour operator and that the tragic event occurred at the host family’s home—a family not connected with the school. The pair had only known each other for about eight days before the deadly confrontation.
According to NSW Police Superintendent Tracy Chapman, a commotion was reported before the older student was found injured. A knife, believed to have originated from the kitchen, was recovered at the scene and is thought to be the weapon used in the stabbing. Strike Force Agnes has been established, involving homicide detectives to investigate the case further.
The accused girl faced the Children’s Court on murder charges and will remain in custody while the investigation unfolds. As the school community grapples with this calamity, support and counselling have been extended to all affected, highlighting the urgency of addressing the trauma endured by those involved. The girls were expected to return to China on August 16, leaving their premature end overshadowed by an incomprehensible act of violence.