The family of a 63-year-old Queensland Coles supermarket worker who was allegedly stabbed by a knife-wielding boy on Monday has released a statement as she is released from Princess Alexander Hospital’s intensive care unit into a general ward.
Queensland Police allege a 13-year-old boy, who has since been charged with the attempted murder of Claudia Campomayor Watt (pictured), took a knife from inside the supermarket in Ipswich’s Yamanto Shopping Centre, southwest of Brisbane, and stabbed the mother-of-two in the back as she stacked shelves.
“On Monday afternoon January 13, our family received the devastating news that Claudia had received life threatening injuries after being attacked with a knife while at work,” her family’s statement, released by her son, Dominic, reads.
“The incident has left us is a state of shock and we remain in the process of trying to come to terms with what has happened.
“At this time, we can confirm that she is out of ICU and off sedation, and we have been able to speak with her.
“We would also like to take the opportunity now to publicly acknowledge the support that we have received and thank all those involved who helped to save her life.
“To the first responders on scene that provided crucial medical attention, we thank you. Â
To the specialists, doctors, nurses and their team who have continued to provide expert medical care we are extremely grateful.
“We would also like to acknowledge and thank those members of the public who acted quickly to assist in the apprehension of the offender.
“To the wider community who have sent well wishes, prayers and support, thank you. All these things make a difference.
“We still have a long journey ahead of us but thankfully Claudia is now on the road to recovery.
“We appreciate that this has significant media interest, but we are requesting that you respect our privacy as we continue to come to terms with what has happened and give Claudia the time and space she needs to make a full recovery from this traumatic event.”
Coles supermarkets across Australia removed all knives off their shelves on Wednesday in response to the alleged attack.Â
The teenager charged over the incident has been remanded in custody to face court again on February 25th.
