Horrific news this morning.
Mia Ayliffe-Chung, a 21-year-old from England, was murdered at a hostel in Townsville, Queensland on Tuesday night (23rd).
A man of French nationality is believed to have shouted “Allahu akbar” during the attack which left Mia dead and a British man, aged 30, in critical condition.
It is believed that a second man also suffered a stab wound to the leg while reports from Australian media say that a dog was also killed in the attack.
According to The Australian, Queensland Police Service Deputy Commissioner Steve Gollschewski said that police are investigating whether the motive for the attack was linked to terrorism.
Speaking to reporters in Brisbane, the Deputy Commissioner said:
“While this information will be factored into the investigation, we are not ruling out any motivations at this stage, whether they be political or criminal.
“Investigators will also consider whether mental health or drug misuse factors are involved in this incident”.
The suspect is being treated in hospital for non-life-threatening injuries and it is thought he has been in Australian on a temporary visa since March.
Gollschewski continued:
“He is a visitor to Australia and has no known local connections, however investigations are ongoing”.
It’s believed that the suspect and the people he attacked had all been staying in the same hostel, Home Hill Backpackers,located near Townsville.
Queensland Police Minister Bill Byrne also spoke to the publication:
“Right now our thoughts are with the victims’ family and friends and the close knit community of Home Hill,” Mr Byrne said.
“I have been briefed by the Police Commissioner on the incident and I remain in contact with him as the investigation unfolds
“As said by Deputy Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski today, the investigation is still in its early stages and more details are expected to become clear as it progresses”.
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