GOLD COAST, Australia — A 32-year-old Uber driver is fighting for her life after being savagely stabbed by a passenger in a horrifying late-night attack at Westfield Coomera shopping centre.
Emergency services were called to the shopping complex on Foxwell Road just after 1:25 a.m. on Tuesday, following frantic reports of a violent assault.
According to Queensland Police, the woman suffered multiple stab wounds during the attack, with particularly severe injuries to her neck and face. Authorities described the assault as “extremely vicious,” leaving the victim in a critical condition.
Swift Response from Security and Paramedics
Queensland Ambulance Service confirmed that security staff from the shopping centre rushed to the woman’s aid immediately after the attack. They provided vital first aid while waiting for paramedics, who arrived within minutes and continued treatment before transporting her to Gold Coast University Hospital.
As of Tuesday morning, the victim remains in critical condition, with doctors working urgently to stabilize her.
Attacker on the Run
Police said the alleged attacker, who was reportedly the woman’s passenger, fled the scene on foot following the stabbing. Detectives have since declared a crime scene at Westfield Coomera, with forensic officers conducting a thorough examination of the area.
Authorities have not yet released a description of the suspect but confirmed that an active manhunt is underway. Detectives are reviewing CCTV footage from the shopping centre and surrounding areas in hopes of tracking the attacker’s movements.
Police Appeal for Public Assistance
Investigators are urging members of the public to come forward with any information that could assist the investigation. In particular, they are appealing to anyone who may have CCTV or dashcam footage from around Westfield Coomera between midnight and 2:00 a.m. on Tuesday.
“This was a shocking act of violence against a woman simply doing her job,” a Queensland Police spokesperson said. “We are committed to finding the person responsible and bringing them to justice. Community assistance will be critical in this investigation.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit details via the online portal.
Community Shock and Safety Concerns
The attack has sent shockwaves through the Gold Coast community, raising concerns about the safety of rideshare drivers working late hours. Many drivers have voiced fears about being vulnerable to violent passengers, with calls for increased safety measures such as mandatory dashcams and stronger verification protocols for riders.
Rideshare companies, including Uber, are yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.
For now, the community’s thoughts remain with the victim as she fights for her life in hospital, while police intensify efforts to capture the suspect behind the brutal assault.