An international manhunt is underway for a man who poured scalding hot coffee on a nine-month-old boy in Brisbane, Australia. The seemingly random attack occurred on Aug. 31 during a family picnic, leaving the baby with serious burns on his face and limbs. An off-duty nurse nearby rushed to help, taking the baby to her apartment and placing him under a cold shower. The child was then taken to Queensland Children’s Hospital, where he has undergone multiple surgeries.
Background
The 33-year-old suspect is wanted for acts intending to cause grievous bodily harm. Six days after the incident, and just 12 hours before police could confirm his identity, he fled the country. Australian police are now collaborating with international authorities to locate him. The motive for the attack remains unknown, and the investigation has been described as one of the “most complex and frustrating” ever led by Queensland police.
Investigation details
Initially, police were given the wrong name for the suspect, complicating the investigation. “It soon became apparent to us that this person was aware of police methodologies, was certainly conducting counter-surveillance activities, which made the investigation quite complex,” a detective told The Guardian. The police have since confirmed they know the suspect’s name and the country he fled to, but have withheld this information to avoid jeopardising the investigation. The case has been labelled “callous and cowardly,” with the detective noting, “In 35 years of being a police officer, I’ve never come across a job where a child this young in these circumstances has been attacked.”
“Devastated”
The infant’s mother spoke to the media, describing her son as resilient and “walking and causing chaos.” She expressed pride in his strength but acknowledged that his physical healing might take years and could require further skin grafts. She also shared her fear and anxiety, saying she was “devastated” to learn the suspect had escaped the country. “It sounds like they were very, very close in catching him,” she said. “I just want to know why, why he did this? These are questions that may always be unanswered… Honestly, I cry every single day.”
Public appeal
The police have released CCTV footage and are requesting anyone who recognises the suspect or has information about the case to come forward. The footage is part of their ongoing efforts to track down the man responsible for this heinous act.
International cooperation
Australian police are working closely with their international counterparts to locate the suspect. This collaboration underscores the seriousness of the crime and the determination of law enforcement agencies to bring the perpetrator to justice. The case has drawn significant attention, highlighting the challenges and complexities of international manhunts.
The investigation continues, with authorities urging the public to assist in any way possible to ensure the suspect is apprehended and brought to justice.
