Armed robbery victim left traumatised
March 6, 2024
By Rachel Williams
Winnaleah was shocked by news that a local resident was the victim of an attempted armed robbery at knifepoint last Wednesday morning.
The 40-year-old mother of two, who did not want her name published, was confronted by a man who was attempting to break into her vehicle on Racecourse Road.
He is described as being Caucasian, about 173cm, with black and grey face stubble, wearing dirty unwashed clothes, a black cap, black hoodie, black pants, black shoes, and black framed plastic sunglasses.
He demanded she open the car before searching inside the vehicle and then fleeing on foot towards Pioneer Lake.
She was not physically injured during the incident, and no items were stolen.
The victim’s husband said it appeared to be an opportunistic and random incident that could have been much worse had their two children been there at the time.
“I don’t think the community should be concerned but be alert because we don’t know who is around and don’t know where they are from,” he said.
“You like to think you are immune to these types of things when you are living in the country, but we are unfortunately not which is a shame.
“Physically she is fine but mentally it will be a long road. She’s doing okay but there will be lingering effects for some time.”
The couple hope that by speaking out about the incident it might encourage anyone with information to come forward.
“I really want to thank the community for its support and we couldn’t ask any more of the Police – they have been really supportive and organised for a counsellor,” he said.
“If anyone has any information at all, please call Police because any information might lead to a conviction.
“The Police are doing all they can but they require leads to investigate to stop this happening again.”
Debbie Clarke from the Winnaleah Post Office said it was a traumatising situation for all involved.
“It is frightening to think this would happen in such a small community you don’t expect it to happen here,” she said.
“The poor girl is very traumatised.
“I know what it’s like – we were broken into here about four years ago and the Police got them because of our security cameras but it really is very traumatising.
“It’s really scary and it never leaves you and it is sad it has happened in such a beautiful small town.”
Police are following a specific line of inquiry in relation to the offender.
Anyone with information should contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or via crimestopperstas.com.au