Detectives charge 17-year-old boy over alleged electric saw attack on tourist in Bluff Point public toilet
WARNING: Graphic content
A teenage boy has been charged after allegedly slashing a German backpacker in the head with an electric saw during an armed robbery in Geraldton.
Geraldton detectives have been on the hunt for a group of young alleged suspects since the terrifying attack on the 24-year-old backpacker at St Georges Beach in Bluff Point.
Police said the 24-year-old was in the Kempton Street toilet block when he was approached by a group of males wearing face coverings about 10.40pm.
Camera IconA 24-year-old German backpacker has been injured with a gardening tool in an attempted robbery by a group of young males at a public toilet in Bluff Point. WA Police Credit: WA Police/RegionalHUB
It is alleged a 17-year-old boy, who was part of the group, threatened the German backpacker with an electric saw as he demanded he hand over his clothing and jewellery.
When he refused, police say he was physically assaulted before the 17-year-old struck him in the head with the gardening tool.
After a short scuffle inside the toilet block, the group fled the scene empty-handed.
The 24-year-old was taken to hospital for treatment of a large laceration to his forehead and bruising.
Police on Wednesday arrested the 17-year-old, from Rangeway, and have charged him with aggravated assault with intent to rob.
He will face the Geraldton Children’s Court on Thursday.
Police say they remain investigating the incident and urge anyone who lives in the Beresford and Bluff Point areas to review their CCTV footage and check to see if any gardening tools have been stolen from their premises.
Camera IconThe public toilet on Kempton Street in Bluff Point. Credit: Jessica Moroney
CCTV and dashcam footage relevant to the investigation can be uploaded directly to investigators via this link.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online here.
People reporting information to Crime Stoppers may remain anonymous if they wish.
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