Incident Overview

Incident Overview

On Tuesday, August 19, 2025, in the early hours—around 4:50 a.m. local time—emergency responders were called to the BP service station at the corner of Potter Street and Princes Highway in Dandenong (Melbourne’s south‑east), following reports of a man found with stab wounds outside the premises ABCHerald SunNews.com.au.

What Happened:

• Victim discovery: A 39‑year‑old man, not yet formally identified pending family notification, collapsed on a nature strip outside the BP service station. Despite attempts by police and paramedics, he was pronounced dead at the scene ABCHerald SunNews.com.au.

• Scene location: The crime scene was the same service station known for a previous violent incident in May involving a machete-related carjacking attempt ABCHerald Sun.

Police Response & Investigation:

• Targeted attack: Victoria Police, led by Detective Inspector Dean Thomas, believe the stabbing occurred inside a nearby residence. The victim then fled before collapsing—a pattern suggesting the assault was likely targeted ABCHerald Sun9NewsDandenong Star JournalNews.com.au.

• Timeline: The stabbing is thought to have taken place around 4:35 a.m. 9NewsDandenong Star Journal.

• Ongoing actions: A mobile phone found near the scene is being examined for links to the crime. No weapon has been recovered yet, and no suspects have been identified ABCHerald Sun9NewsNews.com.au. Forensic investigators continue searching surrounding properties Herald SunDandenong Star Journal.

• Public appeal: Police urged anyone present in the area between 4:30–5:00 a.m. to come forward—especially if they noticed suspicious people or vehicles ABCThe GuardianNews.com.auDandenong Star Journal7NEWS.

• Community reassurance: Authorities stressed there’s no broader threat to public safety at this time ABC.

• Increased patrols: Local police patrols have been heightened in the area as investigations continue ABCNews.com.au.

Political Response

Opposition Leader Brad Battin, a former police officer, visited the scene unannounced to deliver a media message about rising crime in Victoria. His presence sparked significant backlash:

• Criticism: Government minister Colin Brooks condemned Battin’s appearance as insensitive and urged an apology, noting the victim’s identity hadn’t been disclosed or kin notified The GuardianHerald Sun.

• Battin’s stance: He defended his actions, asserting he was amplifying public safety concerns and declined to apologize The GuardianHerald Sun.

At a Glance: Key Facts