Homicide Squad detectives have arrested four males after a 22-year-old man was stabbed to death outside Mernda railway station in Melbourne’s outer north, in what police say began as an alleged attempted robbery of a 14-year-old boy during peak hour.
Emergency services were called to Bridge Inn Road about 5.50 pm on Friday, 6 March, after reports of a group fighting near the station. Police say the 22-year-old Mernda man, described as a security guard who was travelling home from work, was found with life-threatening injuries and died at the scene despite treatment from paramedics.
Detective Acting Inspector Nigel L’Estrange said investigators believe four males approached the teenager and attempted to rob him before the confrontation escalated. The 14-year-old boy was allegedly assaulted and pushed to the ground, prompting several bystanders to intervene.
Police say the 22-year-old was among those who stepped in, helping the teenager away from the immediate area and escorting him outside the station.
Police allege the group followed them and attacked the 22-year-old, using punches, kicks and edged weapons. Officers recovered a machete nearby, though detectives say it is not yet clear what weapon caused the fatal injuries.
A 16-year-old boy, two 17-year-old boys and an 18-year-old man were arrested in connection with the incident and remain in custody. Police said one of the alleged offenders was in the hospital under guard while the others were being interviewed.
The 14-year-old victim suffered facial injuries, including what police believe is a broken nose, and has since been discharged from hospital. Detectives said at least two females who were present are assisting police with inquiries and are not in custody.
Local area commander Inspector Kate O’Neill described the attack as deeply distressing, saying police had increased patrols around the station. She said Protective Services Officers patrol Mernda station from 6 pm to 2 am, and that this would continue. She added that officers arrived within minutes of the emergency call.
The killing has reignited debate about youth violence and knives in Victoria.
Opposition Shadow Minister for Police and Corrections Brad Battin is blaming the Allan government for failing to curb youth crime and remove machetes from the streets.
“They can’t ignore the crime crisis. We need more police, stronger sentencing and safer communities. Urgently.”
He added that the death would alarm Victorians and pointed to police staffing pressures and station operating hours as part of broader community safety concerns.
Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has CCTV, dashcam or mobile phone footage to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or lodge a confidential report online.
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