Man Jailed After Knife Attack in Queensland Garage

Download IPFS

A Queensland man has been sentenced to six years in prison after throwing a knife into his former employee’s eye during a violent confrontation at his garage.

The court heard that the 41-year-old garage owner, who had consumed up to 12 beers and used cocaine earlier in the day, became aggressive while working on a car with a former staff member. The victim, who had come to assist with vehicle repairs, was reportedly trying to calm the man down when the incident occurred.

Witnesses said the garage owner picked up a kitchen knife and threw it with force, striking the 26-year-old victim in the face. The blade lodged into the man’s eye socket, causing catastrophic injuries that later required the removal of the eye.

Emergency services were called to the scene, and the victim was rushed to the hospital. Doctors were unable to save the eye despite multiple surgical attempts.

The attacker initially denied responsibility but later pleaded guilty to one count of grievous bodily harm. During sentencing in the Brisbane District Court, Judge Jennifer Rosengren described the act as “deliberate and dangerous,” stating that the use of a weapon while intoxicated posed a serious risk to others.

The court also heard the garage owner had a history of drug use and previous convictions for assault, though none as serious as the current charge. A psychological report submitted in court described the offender as remorseful but noted ongoing substance abuse issues.

The victim, now permanently blind in one eye, said in a statement read to the court that the attack had ruined his career prospects and left him traumatised. He has since undergone counselling and continues to recover.

Judge Rosengren sentenced the man to six years in prison, with parole eligibility set after serving two years. She emphasised that such violent conduct, particularly when fuelled by drugs and alcohol, would not be tolerated in Queensland communities.