A 14-year-old boy who allegedly stabbed a student at the University of Sydney was wearing an army cadet-style uniform – as police probe possible links to extremist groups.
The teen allegedly stabbed the 22-year-old man in the neck and the back at the campus in Sydney’s inner-west at about 8.35am on Tuesday.
The student was rushed to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in a stable condition.
It’s understood the 14-year-old boy presented to the same hospital covered with blood and was arrested after claiming responsibility for the attack.
In a statement, NSW Police said the alleged attacker – who is understood to have mental health issues – did not know the victim.
It’s understood the teenager injured his hand during the incident and was treated at the hospital, where he also assisted with police inquiries.
A 14-year-old boy has been arrested and a man has been rushed to hospital after a stabbing sent the University of Sydney into lockdown (police are pictured at the scene)
The teenager allegedly stabbed the man, 22, in the neck and back at the university in Camperdown, in Sydney’s inner west, about 8.35am on Tuesday
Photos from the scene show a puffer jacket and a backpack beside what appears to be a bloodstain on the concrete at the university’s entrance (pictured)
Photos from the scene show a puffer jacket and a backpack beside what appears to be a bloodstain on concrete paving at the university’s entrance.
A crime scene has been established outside the Veterinarian Science building.
Police and ambulance crews left the university at about 10am with forensic officers later arriving to take evidence from the crime scene.
A student, who wished to remain anonymous, told the Daily Telegraph they had been inside a café on campus when someone rushed to lock the doors.
‘They said someone had been badly hurt but we didn’t know it was a stabbing. To find out someone was stabbed like that is really scary,’ they said.
Tutors said multiple buildings at the campus were immediately subject to a lockdown with the University of Sydney issuing a statement to students.
‘As a precautionary measure there may be an increased security and police presence on campus while investigations continue,’ a university spokesperson said.
‘The safety and wellbeing of our students, staff and members of the community is our priority, and we continue to work with authorities.
‘Our support services are available for anyone who needs assistance. You can access free and confidential counselling and wellbeing support 24/7 with Student Wellbeing by visiting the health and wellbeing webpage. 24-hour support is also available from Lifeline via text, online chat, or by calling 13 11 14. ‘
University of Sydney Vice Chancellor Mark Scott said he was ‘shocked and saddened’ by the events at the campus.
