A Wagga Wagga homeowner and his dog were injured after police say a suspicious situation at the rear of a property turned into an alleged knife threat and assault.
Emergency services were called to Tongaboo Lane about 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 24, after reports of an assault, according to NSW Police.
Police said a 45-year-old property owner confronted a 31-year-old man who was allegedly acting suspiciously at the rear of the property. The younger man allegedly threatened him with a knife before assaulting him.
A dog belonging to the homeowner was also injured. Region Riverina reported that the incident happened in the city’s south.
Bystanders Came To the Homeowner’s Aid
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Police said several members of the public who were nearby helped the homeowner and contacted emergency services.
The 31-year-old left before police arrived, according to NSW Police. Officers later found him in Baylis Street, Wagga Wagga, with minor injuries. Both men were taken to Wagga Base Hospital and treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
The Man Was Charged After Leaving Hospital
NSW Police said the 31-year-old was released from hospital about 1:45 a.m. and taken to Wagga Police Station.
He was charged with reckless wounding, affray, and being armed with intent to commit an indictable offence. Police said he was refused bail and appeared before Bail Division Local Court 5 on Thursday, June 25.
Suspicious Activity Behind a Home Should Be Reported Quickly
A backyard or rear lane can leave a homeowner close to danger before they know what is happening. If someone is acting suspiciously behind a home, the safer move is to get inside, secure the door, keep pets away from the person, and call police.
The NSW Police personal safety guidance tells residents not to be afraid that involving police will make things worse and says to call Triple Zero in an emergency.
The NSW Police Protect Your Home guide also recommends sturdy fences and locked gates, visible house numbers for emergency responders, trimmed landscaping around the home, sensor lighting, CCTV, and locked sheds and garages.