Home / Crime and Justice / Escapee Charged With Murder After Sydney Stabbing Spree
Escapee Charged With Murder After Sydney Stabbing Spree
18 Feb
Summary
- Man charged with murder after allegedly stabbing strangers in Sydney.
- Accused escaped a mental health facility 10 days prior to the attack.
- One person died, and two others were critically injured in the incident.

A man accused of a fatal stabbing attack in Sydney's west, which left one person dead and two critically injured, has been charged with murder. Setefano Mooniai Leaaetoa, 25, allegedly attacked strangers on February 17, ten days after escaping from a mental health facility. The incident occurred in Merrylands, with CCTV footage showing the alleged attack beginning inside a grocery store.
Leaaetoa was apprehended nearby and charged with murder and two counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent to murder. He had a history of petty crime and mental health incidents. The court heard he also faces domestic violence charges. A review has been initiated into how Leaaetoa escaped from health professionals during a transfer on February 7.
The Western Sydney Local Health District confirmed Leaaetoa absconded on February 7 while being transferred from Cumberland Hospital to Westmead Hospital. Police and family were notified, but he could not be located. A formal review into his care and treatment is underway.




