A citywide hunt is underway in Melbourne, Australia, after a woman was captured on CCTV smashing a plate into a waitress's face during an unprovoked attack. The incident occurred on Saturday, April 25, at La Vallee café in Essendon, North Melbourne, leaving the young waitress with a chipped tooth and deep shock.
Attack Caught on Camera
The waitress was carrying multiple plates of food when she rounded a corner to serve al fresco diners. A woman, who nearly collided with her, batted the plate upward into the waitress's face and then smashed her hand down again, sending food flying. The entire assault was recorded on CCTV, prompting the café's owners to share the footage on social media in hopes of identifying the attacker.
In a statement, La Vallee café expressed their shock: "We are beyond shocked at the abhorrent behaviour of this grown woman. If you know her, please send us a private message. This incident led to one of our beautiful staff members chipping their tooth from the plate she pushed into her face."
Community Rallies Around Victim
The footage has gone viral, with over 55,000 likes and comments. Many have condemned the assault, calling for police action. High-profile Melbourne businessman Adrian Portelli said, "This behaviour needs to be stamped out. It doesn't belong here." Others tagged Victoria Police to alert them.
Local businesses along Keilor Road have shown immense support. Offers include free self-defence lessons, kinesiology sessions to help balance the waitress's nervous system, and even steaks on the house once her tooth is fixed. A nearby dentist generously offered to repair the tooth at no cost, stating, "This is disgusting behaviour... I am more than happy to fix your staff member's front tooth." Sear Steakhouse also offered a meal, declaring, "Keilor Road will stand together."
The waitress's housemate provided an update, saying, "She called me right after the accident. She was so shocked and scared about everything: the dentist, the cost, work..." The housemate praised La Vallee for their support.
Police Investigation Ongoing
As of now, the attacker remains unidentified, and no charges have been filed. The café continues to urge anyone with information to come forward, while the community remains united in seeking justice for the victim.
