A 17-year-old boy remains in custody following a serious incident at Avalon Airport, Victoria, on March 6. Authorities allege he breached security by climbing through a hole in a fence and proceeded on foot towards a Jetstar aircraft, which was scheduled to fly to Sydney with approximately 160 passengers onboard.
The teenager, whose identity is protected for legal reasons, appeared in children’s court via video link for a hearing where his lawyer requested an adjournment. It was disclosed that the boy underwent brain scans at a regional hospital, with further assessments planned for late August to determine if he has any “organic or physiological neurological condition.” A psychological evaluation is also set to take place, although the psychiatrist stated no report would be available until the scans are completed. The magistrate granted an extension for the case until October to gather the necessary medical information.
In the court proceedings, the prosecution successfully dismissed four charges, including theft of two shotguns and illegal possession of a long arm firearm. However, the boy still faces serious charges, including boarding a commercial flight with a firearm and making threats about possessing a bomb.
The incident is being investigated by a joint counter-terrorism taskforce. Reports indicate that the teenager may have been in communication with foreign individuals or entities regarding the matter. Federal police have succeeded in suppressing the identities of these foreigners and the details of the boy’s communications. Additionally, the nature of documents found in the teenager’s vehicle is also under a suppression order, which the magistrate has extended until the forthcoming court date in October.