Melton stabbing: Teenage boy dead after knife attack at Melbourne’s Woodgrove Shopping Centre

A 16-year-old boy is dead and a manhunt is underway after a vicious stabbing at a Melbourne shopping centre.

Emergency services were called to an outdoor food court at Woodgrove Shopping Centre in Melton just before midday on Tuesday.

The teen was found with life threatening injuries, CPR was commenced, but he died at the scene.

Police believe there was an altercation between the victim and a 15-year-old boy who were known to each other.

Detective Senior Sergeant Nigel L’Estrange said the incident began as a verbal argument that then turned physical, with one of the boys brandishing a knife.

Police allege the 15-year-old stabbed the victim several times before running from the area. Police have appealed for public assistance to track him down.

The 15-year-old was last seen running towards High Street in dark clothing, carrying a backpack and wearing headphones. He was described as having shorter than shoulder length, dark curly hair.

Sen. Sgt. L’Estrange said it was a “senseless act”.

“A young man whose life has now been taken away and a family grieving now,” he said.

“Another young kid whose life is going to be destroyed for what he’s done.”

Woodgrove Shopping Centre manager Kylie Robertson said additional security personnel had been deployed and they were working with police to support a heightened level of security across the local area.

“Woodgrove Shopping Centre is supporting Victoria Police with an investigation following a serious incident at Woodgrove’s outdoor dining precinct this afternoon,” she said.

“The centre’s incident management procedures were activated in a coordinated manner, with the scene secured and immediate first aid administered.

“Our thoughts and condolences are with the victim’s family and all those impacted by today’s events.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au