A Tongan man living in Australia has been charged with murder after an alleged random stabbing attack in Sydney’s west that left one man dead and two others critically injured.
New South Wales Police identified the accused as Setefano Mooniai Leaaetoa, 25, who is believed to have been experiencing mental health issues prior to the incident.
The attack unfolded just after 10am on Tuesday along a busy street in Merrylands, a suburb known for its large migrant communities. According to police, Leaaetoa allegedly stabbed three people in what authorities described as a sudden and unprovoked assault.
The victim who died at the scene has been named as Amammuddin Sadar, 38. Emergency responders attempted to revive him, but he succumbed to his injuries before he could be taken to hospital.
Two other victims — Ambika Sharma, 47, and Emre Sen, 21 — were rushed to Westmead Hospital with critical injuries. Police said on Wednesday that both remained in a critical but stable condition.
Police allege Leaaetoa fled on foot after the attack but was arrested shortly afterwards. Detectives later charged him with murder and two counts of causing wounding/grievous bodily harm with intent to murder.
Leaaetoa did not appear in Parramatta Local Court on Wednesday when the case was briefly mentioned. No bail application was made on his behalf, and bail was formally refused.
He has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to return to court on March 4.
Authorities have not yet disclosed what may have triggered the attack, but early indications suggest mental health may have played a role. NSW Police say investigations are ongoing, including inquiries into the accused’s background and possible motives.
Kaniva Tonga News will continue to follow this story as more information becomes available.
