Teen boy charged after alleged stabbing of man at popular park

A man is in a critical condition after being stabbed in the back during a late-night confrontation with a group of teenagers at a park in Sydney’s inner west.

A 15-year-old boy has been charged over the altercation, which began about 10.10pm when a man, 21, riding home from work was allegedly followed, knocked off his bike and punched and kicked at an intersection in Annandale.

The victim was able to flee after two passers-by intervened, but he soon after returned to nearby Federal Park with five other friends and identified his attacker, sparking another confrontation between that group and a second group of 14- to 15-year-old males.

“During that confrontation, one of the males from the [group of teenagers] produced a knife, and whilst they were running away, one of the males was stabbed. He was stabbed a number of times,” said Leichhardt police area command crime manager Chief Inspector Grant Watson.

Paramedics treated the victim after being called to the park, near the Tramsheds food and shopping complex, about 10.45pm, before he was taken to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital.

“He’s in the intensive care unit. There were some great fears for his welfare early in the evening. At the moment, I believe his prognosis is quite good,” Watson said.

Five other men, all friends of the victim, were also treated by paramedics at the scene and three were also taken to hospital.

Watson said the two groups were unknown to each other and police had yet to find a motive for the alleged assaults.

The 15-year-old was arrested about 12.15am and taken to Newtown police station. He has been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and affray.

A search is under way for the other teenagers allegedly involved in the incident.

The boy was refused bail and will appear at a children’s court on Saturday.

Police have asked anyone who saw either incident, or who may have any information, to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

They are also appealing for the two passers-by, one male and one female, who intervened in the initial assault to come forward and speak to police.

The Morning Edition newsletter is our guide to the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up here.