July 21, 2026
A 16-year-old boy was arrested after allegedly stabbing his mother to death and seriously injuring his 12-year-old sister in Bentley, Perth, on July 21, 2026. Police confirmed two crime scenes and described the incident as a suspected family violence homicide.
Police in Western Australia confirmed a 16-year-old male was in custody following the alleged stabbing of his 35-year-old mother and the serious injury of his 12-year-old sister in Bentley, Perth, on July 21, 2026. The incident, described as a suspected family violence homicide, unfolded in the early hours of the morning, with the woman’s body discovered at a residence and the girl found injured 600 meters away along Cannington’s Albany Highway. The 35-year-old woman’s body was found at the home around 6:25am. The house has been cordoned off as police investigate the suspected homicide.
Jessica Securo Details Events
WA Police Detective Acting Inspector Jessica Securo detailed the events to reporters, stating the 12-year-old girl managed to flee the Mills Street residence after being stabbed by her brother. So she was injured at the Mills Street residence as well and she’s been able to flee that area and contact police,
she said, praising the public for providing life-saving care to the injured girl. The teenager was taken into custody, with police confirming no other individuals were involved in the incident.
Securo emphasized the investigation remains in its early stages, with detectives examining the family’s history with authorities. That will form part of our investigation, to look at all incidents involving police, support services and what led to this incident occurring,
she said. Neighbors reported being roused by police to check CCTV footage, with one local, David Walters, expressing shock at the violence. I’m pretty sad for the family, that’s a bad thing,
he said.
Perth Children’s Hospital Treats Injured Girl
The police established two crime scenes: one at the family’s home and another in Cannington. The 12-year-old girl was reported in serious but stable condition at Perth Children’s Hospital. Inspector Securo said no charges had been laid and the matter is still actively under investigation.
A source close to the family revealed the 16-year-old had a history of violent offenses, including assaults and breaking and entering. The boy had recently been released from Banksia Hill Detention Centre. There was concern that he would reoffend, the source said, and the family reached out for support
that was never received. The family was allegedly known to the child protection system. Securo confirmed the suspect was known to police, but detectives were examining any previous interactions the family or boy had with authorities. Local business owner Naveed Akbar described the incident as “shocking,” and another neighbor, who does not wish to be named, said it was extremely shocked, extremely surprised that something of this nature [could happen] … very sad,
and Quite disturbing to be honest.
16-Year-Old Released from Banksia Hill Detention Centre
Investigating officers are seeking witnesses and encouraging the public to come forward. I do encourage any neighbours or any witnesses who have information, please come forward,
Securo said. The incident caused significant traffic disruptions, with Albany Highway temporarily closed northbound. Traffic in Cannington has been diverted around the intersection of Manning Road and Mallard Way. The crime scene sits in a largely commercial area, with businesses lining either side of the highway. Deputy Premier Rita Saffioti said there was no threat to the wider public. Our thoughts are with the first responders as it was a horrific scene,
she said. But as I understand there’s no ongoing security issues or safety issues for the public.
Securo said police believe the woman and her two children lived at the residence together. Detectives remained at the scene on Tuesday afternoon collecting evidence. First responders have been offered counselling due to the confronting nature of the scene.
Police have not yet charged the teenager, stating the case remains under active investigation. This incident will have a significant impact on the family, friends and loved ones of all those involved,
Securo said.
Source: ABC News, 9News Perth.
Sources: ABC News & Headlines – Australian Broadcasting Corporation, WAtoday.
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