Quick Read
- A woman allegedly brandished a knife and threatened shoppers at Lake Haven shopping centre on February 16.
- Brave shoppers and security personnel intervened, disarming and restraining the woman with a chair.
- A 22-year-old man sustained a finger injury during the incident.
- The 38-year-old woman was charged with affray, using a knife in a public place, causing fear for safety, and assault.
- She was refused bail and was scheduled to appear in court on February 17, 2026.
LAKE HAVEN (Azat TV) – A dramatic incident at a Lake Haven shopping centre on the New South Wales Central Coast saw brave shoppers intervene to disarm a woman allegedly brandishing a knife and threatening bystanders. The swift and courageous actions of community members on Monday, February 16, around 5 PM, prevented further injuries, though one man sustained a minor hand injury. The 38-year-old woman involved was subsequently arrested and faced court on multiple charges related to the alarming event.
Police were called to the shopping centre on Goobarabah Avenue following urgent reports of a woman waving a knife and making threats to individuals. Upon arrival, officers were informed that the woman had allegedly threatened to stab people before members of the public and security personnel took action.
Community Courage at Lake Haven Shopping Centre
Witnesses and employees recounted the tense moments as the situation unfolded. Store assistant Elluka Banno described her fear, noting her primary concern was for the safety of others around her. “I was scared, moreso for the other lady,” Banno stated, adding, “I was scared about other people, about what I was going to see, not for myself.” She lauded the bravery of the community’s workers who stepped forward to assist.
Among those who intervened was employee Josh Monk, a hairdresser, who quickly grabbed a nearby chair to use for self-defense and to disarm the aggressor. Monk emphasized his instinctive decision to protect others, remarking, “If you didn’t step up in that moment, then how are you ever going to step up for your family?” His swift thinking, alongside other bystanders and security, was crucial in subduing the woman.
Arrest and Charges Following Lake Haven Incident
During the struggle to disarm the woman, a 22-year-old man sustained a finger injury. Fortunately, no other injuries were reported. After the confrontation, the woman was taken to Wyong Hospital for a medical evaluation. Following her release from the hospital, she was transported to Wyong Police Station.
Authorities charged the 38-year-old woman with several offenses, including affray, using a knife in a public place, causing fear for safety, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Given the serious nature of her alleged actions, she was refused bail and was scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the day after the incident.
Ensuring Safety and Public Trust in Lake Haven
The incident at the Lake Haven shopping centre has ignited discussions within the community regarding public safety and the extraordinary courage displayed by ordinary citizens in moments of crisis. The swift response from both law enforcement and the public highlights the importance of vigilance and community cooperation in maintaining secure environments. This event serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of public spaces and the critical role that quick-thinking individuals can play in protecting others.
The collective action of shoppers and staff to neutralize a dangerous situation at the Lake Haven shopping centre underscores a profound sense of community responsibility, transforming potential tragedy into a testament to civilian bravery.