The shocking incident unfolded when a teenager reportedly attacked 63-year-old Claudia Campomaya Watt, stabbing her in the back at a shopping center. Following the attack, the assailant fled the scene.
However, quick-thinking members of the public and diligent security personnel managed to detain the teen until law enforcement arrived, leading to his arrest.
Campomaya Watt was swiftly transported to the hospital in critical condition, where she spent three harrowing days in intensive care, fighting for her life.
This high-profile case has spurred the Queensland government to broaden the scope of its contentious “adult crime, adult time” legislation. The expansion now encompasses additional serious offenses, including attempted murder, underscoring the government’s stern stance on violent crime.
The proceedings returned to the Ipswich Children’s Court today, although the teen was not required to make an appearance in person. During the session, Magistrate Grace Kahlert was informed of a prepared forensic psychiatric report by Dr. Michael Beech. The case is now set to be reviewed by the Mental Health Court.
A forensic psychiatric report on the teen had been prepared by Dr Michael Beech and the case would be referred to the Mental Health Court, magistrate Grace Kahlert heard.
“Our office will consent to a short adjournment of two weeks to ensure a referral has in fact occurred,” crown prosecutor Ashleigh Wakefield said.
A criminal case can be referred to Queensland’s Mental Health Court over claims that the alleged offender is or was mentally ill, or has an intellectual disability.
The court decides whether an accused was of unsound mind when they committed the alleged offence and whether they are fit for trial.
The teen’s solicitor said she received the psychiatric report yesterday.
“There are then some extensive timeframes required by the (Legal Aid) mental health team process,” the solicitor said.
“In two weeks we should be in a position where we can confirm to (prosecutors) that the mental health team has it and the referral is underway.”
The teen allegedly used a knife stocked by Coles to attack Campomaya Watt.
Coles removed knives from sale at stores across Australia “out of an abundance of caution” after the stabbing.
Kahlert adjourned the matter to January 27 and remanded the teen in custody.
