Australian authorities are collaborating with international law enforcement to apprehend a man believed to have fled the country after a troubling incident in Brisbane, where he reportedly poured boiling coffee on a baby.
This shocking attack, which took place last month, left a nine-month-old boy with severe burns on his face and limbs, igniting national outrage. Queensland Police have issued an arrest warrant for the 33-year-old suspect, who faces charges of grievous bodily harm— a crime that could lead to a life sentence.
Authorities revealed that the main suspect boarded a flight out of Sydney six days after the attack, just hours before they were able to verify his identity.
During a family picnic on August 31, witnesses described how a “strange man” approached and viciously emptied a flask of hot coffee onto the child before fleeing the scene on foot. The infant received immediate first aid, and an off-duty nurse assisted by taking him to her apartment for cooling treatment.
Unfortunately, the child sustained severe injuries that have already necessitated multiple surgeries, and his parents report that he faces a long and arduous recovery process.
Detective Inspector Paul Dalton characterized the investigation as one of the “most complex and frustrating” he has encountered, noting that the motive behind the attack remains unclear. While police are aware of the country to which the suspect has fled and his identity, revealing further details at this stage could compromise the investigation.
The suspect, described as an itinerant worker, has traveled to Australia frequently since 2019, holding addresses in both New South Wales and Victoria. Inspector Dalton indicated that the man was aware of police tactics and had undertaken counter-surveillance measures to evade capture.
The boy’s parents expressed their devastation upon learning that the suspect had left Australia, while also feeling a sense of relief at his departure. “It sounds like they were very close to catching him, which means we may have to wait longer for justice for our son,” said the mother.
Though the child is reported to be in “good spirits,” further skin graft surgeries may be necessary. In a show of community support, fundraising efforts for the baby have amassed over A$150,000.
