Melton stabbing: Teen charged with murder after fatal knife attack at Melbourne’s Woodgrove Shopping Centre

A 15-year-old boy has been charged with murder after allegedly fatally stabbing another teenager outside a shopping centre in Melbourne on Tuesday.

Emergency services were called to an outdoor food court at Woodgrove Shopping Centre at Melton West just before midday on Tuesday were they found a 16-year-old with life threatening injuries, CPR was commenced, but he died at the scene.

Police believe there was an altercation between the victim and the 15-year-old boy who were known to each other.

Homidice squad investigators subsequently arrested the 15-year-old Melton West boy and he has been charged with one count of murder.

He will appear at a children’s court at a later date.

Detective Senior Sergeant Nigel L’Estrange said the incident began as a verbal argument that then turned physical, with one of the boys brandishing a knife.

Police allege the 15-year-old stabbed the victim several times before running from the area.

Sen. Sgt. L’Estrange said it was a “senseless act”.

“A young man whose life has now been taken away and a family grieving now,” he said.

“Another young kid whose life is going to be destroyed for what he’s done.”

Woodgrove Shopping Centre manager Kylie Robertson said additional security personnel had been deployed and they were working with police to support a heightened level of security across the local area.

“Woodgrove Shopping Centre is supporting Victoria Police with an investigation following a serious incident at Woodgrove’s outdoor dining precinct this afternoon,” she said.

“The centre’s incident management procedures were activated in a coordinated manner, with the scene secured and immediate first aid administered.

“Our thoughts and condolences are with the victim’s family and all those impacted by today’s events.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au