The woman, aged 60, was assisting with a disability workshop at a facility on Kurrajong Avenue, Mt Druitt yesterday afternoon when a 26-year-old man arrived and a verbal argument allegedly ensued.
During what police have described as a “vicious attack”, the man allegedly punched and kicked the woman in the head multiple times and threw her to the ground, causing her to hit her head on the concrete.
Staff members were also allegedly assaulted when they attempted to intervene.
“Being a workshop there were a couple of people there who suffer a varying degree of disability. A couple of them did arm themselves with a mop and a squeegee to confront the male and stop the attack,” Detective Chief Inspector Paul Tickner said.
“The male unfortunately armed himself with a fire extinguisher and they retreated back into the premises.”
The woman was treated for head injuries before being rushed to Westmead Hospital, where she remains in a critical condition.
“There are a number of fractures to the face and a bleed to the brain,” Mr Tickner said.
Mr Tickner said workers at the facility are “extremely traumatised” after witnessing the incident.
“it was a violent attack on a fairly frail 60-year-old lady.”
The man fled the scene before emergency services arrived, however police later found and arrested him.
He now faces several domestic violence-related charges including causing grievous bodily harm to person with intent (domestic violence) and destroy or damage property (domestic violence).
He was refused bail and is expected to appear in court today.
Readers seeking support can contact the National Domestic Violence Service: 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). If you are in immediate danger call triple zero (000).
Source: 9News | World News
