A 14-year-old boy has died following a fatal knife attack at Vella La Vella in Western Province on Saturday afternoon.
Reports reaching the Solomon Star indicated that the teenager was attacked with a knife at a plantation near Kuava village while returning home from his garden.
He was rushed to Gizo Hospital for treatment but was pronounced dead on arrival.
Initial information suggested the boy encountered a man believed to be living with mental health issues.
It is alleged that the man asked the teenager for his knife, which the boy reportedly handed over.
The suspect is then alleged to used it to stab the boy without provocation.
The incident has shocked residents of the area, with community members describing it as sudden and unprovoked.
Unconfirmed reports further claimed that the suspect had recently been discharged from Kilu’ufi Hospital.
However, these details are yet to be officially confirmed.
Police in Western Province have launched an investigation into the matter. The suspect is believed to be in police custody, and officers are currently collecting statements from witnesses and family members.
The tragic death has raised renewed concerns among local communities about public safety and the monitoring and support of individuals with mental health conditions following discharge from medical facilities.
Police are expected to issue a formal statement once investigations are completed.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star Gizo
