The father of a 15-year-old boy, who stands accused of breaking the jaw of a fellow student at an Ellenbrook shopping centre, expressed his outrage over his son’s actions. The incident, which occurred three weeks ago, involved the victim, a 14-year-old student from Aveley Secondary College, who suffered severe injuries after allegedly being coward punched from behind. He was left convulsing on the ground, resulting in two fractures in his jaw that now require metal plates for support.
As the accused appeared in a Children’s Court for the first time, the victim’s father and supporters held a silent protest outside. The father of the accused expressed his concern for both families, sharing his distress at watching his son navigate the aftermath of the situation. “I’ve had to pray every night that he survives and doesn’t contemplate ending his own life over this,” he revealed.
The accused intends to plead guilty to the charges. His lawyer stated that they are currently seeking the shopping centre’s security footage as part of their preparation for the case. The family of the victim is worried about arrangements that will ensure his safe return to school, especially given the circumstances surrounding the attack. However, the father of the accused assured that his son would not be returning to the same school as the victim.
Despite the gravity of the situation, he emphasised his empathy for the victim’s family: “Our thoughts and prayers certainly go out to the family, and that’s from the bottom of our heart.” He reiterated their shared outrage with the community, acknowledging the severity of the incident.
The accused teenager is set to appear in court again in three weeks as the legal proceedings continue. None of those involved can be named due to legal restrictions.