Chaos erupted at a bustling Melbourne shopping centre when a daylight stabbing incident triggered a dramatic confrontation between an alleged attacker and courageous members of the public.
Brave Bystanders Confront Alleged Attacker
Shocking eyewitness footage captured the moment multiple bystanders took matters into their own hands, physically restraining a man allegedly armed with a knife. The confrontation occurred in the car park of a shopping precinct on Plenty Road in Melbourne's northern suburbs.
According to police reports, the incident began when a 36-year-old man was discovered with multiple stab wounds in the shopping centre car park around 4:15 PM on Tuesday.
Victim Fights for Life
The victim, whose identity remains protected, was rushed to Royal Melbourne Hospital in a critical condition. Medical staff confirmed he suffered multiple stab wounds and underwent emergency surgery.
"This was a vicious attack that occurred in a public place frequented by families and shoppers," stated Victoria Police Detective Inspector Andrew Stamper. "We're fortunate that quick-thinking members of the public intervened before further harm could occur."
Dramatic Arrest Scene
Witnesses described scenes of pandemonium as shoppers realised what was unfolding. Several people reportedly rushed toward the alleged attacker, using physical force to disarm and restrain him until police arrived.
"I saw three or four guys tackling him to the ground," one eyewitness recounted. "They were incredibly brave - he still had the knife in his hand. They probably saved someone's life."
Suspect in Custody
Hakan Sahin, a 36-year-old from Dallas, has been charged with multiple offences including intentionally causing serious injury, reckless conduct endangering life, and possession of a controlled weapon.
The accused appeared briefly at Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, where he was remanded in custody to reappear at a later date.
Police have confirmed the victim and alleged attacker were known to each other, suggesting this was not a random attack on members of the public.
Community in Shock
Local residents expressed shock that such violence had occurred in their typically peaceful neighbourhood. The shopping centre remained cordoned off for several hours as forensic teams conducted their investigation.
"This is normally such a quiet area - you don't expect this kind of thing to happen here," said local shopkeeper Maria Thompson. "Those people who stepped in are true heroes."
The investigation continues as police appeal for any additional witnesses to come forward.
