Police are currently investigating two separate incidents in Kew, an area east of Melbourne’s CBD. Early this morning, unidentified suspects attempted to break into a residence on Brazier Grove around 3am but failed to gain entry. However, they later succeeded in another home on the same street, where they stole car keys and two vehicles—a red Mazda sedan and a gold Toyota Camry—by approximately 3:30am. Security cameras captured footage of two individuals in hooded jumpers trying to enter the first home before retreating.
Meanwhile, a violent robbery occurred in Kew East the previous morning, leaving a 39-year-old father hospitalised after being stabbed 11 times with a machete. The man confronted a gang that broke into his home on Oxford Street around 4am. Armed with garden shears, the attackers smashed a window while the man’s wife and their two young children were forced into a different room for safety. The father sustained severe injuries, including a broken arm, facial cuts, and is expected to undergo eye surgery. His elderly parents were also hurt while trying to assist him.
The suspects made off with the family’s BMW, which was later found abandoned in Deer Park. In connection with this alarming home invasion, three individuals—two teenage boys aged 16 and 17, and a 24-year-old man—have been charged with multiple offences, including aggravated home invasion and false imprisonment. Two additional suspects remain at large. The 24-year-old is scheduled to appear in court next month.
Local leaders, including Victoria’s Minister for Transport and Infrastructure, Gabrielle Williams, have expressed their outrage over the violent incidents, stressing that such behaviour is unacceptable in the community. Victoria Police’s Leanne Trusler remarked on the unprecedented nature of the events, indicating they do not appear to be premeditated but rather opportunistic attacks that victimised a family.
Authorities are encouraging anyone with information, CCTV or dashcam footage related to the incidents to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.