15-year-old charged with attempted murder over Wallabies stabbing
A 15-year-old boy has been charged with the attempted murder of Wallabies player Toutai Kefu, after the boy and two other armed youths allegedly robbed the star’s home.
Queensland Police believe the Kefu’s Brisbane home was being burgled when the trio were confronted by an adult family member, who had woken to noises at about 3.15am on Monday morning.
The offenders allegedly threatened the family with violence if they didn’t hand over their car keys, according to police.
“During this time, very significant injuries occurred to the family as a result of what we will allege were the actions of the offenders who had broken into the family’s home,” Detective Superintendent Tony Fleming said.
Kefu was allegedly stabbed in the stomach and was initially in critical condition. After undergoing hours of emergency surgery, Kefu is expected to survive.
Image: 7NEWS
According to Fleming, Ketu’s wife suffered “very, very serious lacerations to her arm and I’m told her wounds are very significant”.
Two of the couple’s children, aged 21 and 18, were also injured.
“The adult male suffered terrible wounds to [his] arm and back and I understand one of the female children has cuts to her hand and arm,” Fleming said.
“Whilst the outcome is absolutely tragic and I’m appalled by the injuries this family has suffered in their own home in the middle of the night, all credit to all those people coming to the aid of each other.”
Olivia Kefu, the rugby player’s other daughter, shared an update on her family’s condition on Tuesday morning.
“Hey everyone! Just wanted to give a quick update. Both Josh and Dad had their surgeries yesterday and are recovering well,” she wrote.
“Madi and Mum will have their operations this morning.
“Thank you to everyone for all the kind messages and support, it means the absolute world to use all.”
A woman who attempted to stop a car from being stolen, which police believe was used to arrive at the scene and flee, was also “shoved over”.
Police said they charged one of the teenagers late on Monday afternoon with four counts of attempted murder and three counts of assault causing grievous bodily harm, as well as one count each of unlawful use of a motor vehicle, break and enter, burglary, and deprivation of liberty.
The teen was refused bail and is expected to appear in Brisbane Children’s Court.
A second 15-year-old boy has also been taken into custody after he went to South Brisbane Hospital with injuries.
Police have also located an axe, but Fleming said a machete was also allegedly involved due to the nature of the injuries.
Image: Queensland Police
Police are appealing for anyone who may have seen the stolen silver-coloured Hyundai, taken from Forest Lake, to come forward.
Members of the rugby world have since rallied around Kefu and his family, while Premier Anastacia Palaszczuk also sent the family her thoughts and prayers.