A Melbourne homeowner has spoken out after more than 100 people turned up at his short-term rental property, leading to a brawl that ended in a stabbing. The out-of-control party had to be broken up by police.
Party descends into chaos
Despite only two people being on the booking, the huge crowd arrived at the property on Belvedere Drive in Pakenham at about 9.30pm on Friday, September 11. The carnage was captured on a doorbell camera.
Even after the crowd was moved on, further problems emerged for police. Just before 10pm on Friday night, a brawl involving the same group broke out at Pakenham Railway Station. Police say a 26-year-old man, who was trying to break up the fight, was stabbed in the arm.
No arrests made
Paramedics arrived and took the man to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The group involved in the brawl fled when officers arrived, and despite a thorough search, no arrests have been made.
Owner speaks out
Anwar Sadat, who owns the home where the party was hosted, told 7News he believed he had rented the property to two adults, who had agreed there would be no partying.
“I said, like, make sure you don’t do any party. And he said, yes, no, they will not have any parties,” he said.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, has CCTV or dashcam footage, or has information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au. A spokesperson for Airbnb has told the Mirror that, despite reports, the property was not rented out via their platform.
