Boy, 13, charged with attempted murder as Coles worker fights for life after stabbing in Queensland

A 13-year-old boy has been charged with attempted murder after allegedly stabbing a Coles employee.

Police say the teenager approached the 63-year-old woman while she was working at the supermarket at Manto Shopping Center in Ipswich, southwest of Brisbane, and stabbed her in the back before trying to flee the scene.

Members of the public and security staff restrained the boy until police arrived.

Officer Kelly Reed praised their actions.

“It's really brave of them to step up and help,” she said.

The injured woman was treated by police before being taken by paramedics to Princess Alexandra Hospital, where she is listed in a critical but stable condition.

Detective Inspector Michael Manago described the alleged attack on Monday night as “abhorrent”.

“This was a heinous (alleged stabbing) incident that happened to an innocent 63-year-old woman while she was going about her day job at the shopping centre, something that should not happen in society,” he said.

Police confirmed the attack was random and they believe the 13-year-old acted alone.

“There is no indication that anyone else was involved,” Manago said.

Detectives are investigating how the knife was obtained amid recent Queensland legislation known as “Jack's Law” which restricts the sale of knives.

The teenager was charged overnight and will face Ipswich Children's Court on Tuesday.

In a statement, a Coles spokesperson expressed support for the injured worker and praised those who intervened.

“Our thoughts are with the store team members and their families following Monday’s distressing events.

“We are committed to supporting them and colleagues receiving counseling during this difficult time.

“The safety of our customers and team members is our top priority.

“We would like to thank everyone who has provided assistance, including emergency services and Queensland Police, with whom we are working with the investigation.”

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli condemned the incident, saying it was traumatic and reflective of wider issues the state was grappling with.

“It's absolutely painful. What's happened is something no Queenslander wants to see,” the premier told reporters on the Sunshine Coast.

“There's a sense of déjà vu in the state and Queenslanders have had enough of this type of incident.”

After passing the “Adult Crime, Adult Time” laws in December last year, the Prime Minister said there would be further changes to youth justice legislation.

“I have indicated that we are putting together a panel of experts to make future changes,” he said.

“Trust me, they will happen.”

Queensland Police has assured the community that more high-visibility patrols will be conducted in the center of Yamento.

“We are already drawing up plans to conduct more high-visibility patrols at these locations to restore public confidence,” Reid said.

The investigation is ongoing.