Sydney, NSW – A 13-year-old Chinese exchange student has been arrested in connection with the fatal stabbing of a 14-year-old girl at a residence in Edgeworth, NSW.
The victim, also from China, suffered a torso injury at a home on Euston Close, Edgeworth, around 10:20 pm on Monday.
Emergency services responded to the scene, and the girl was rushed to hospital in critical condition, where she later succumbed to her injuries.
According to Superintendent Tracy Chapman, commander of the Lake Macquarie Police District, the 13-year-old suspect remained in custody on Tuesday afternoon and was cooperating with the investigation.
Both girls were in Australia as part of an exchange program, staying with local hosts, and attended a local school.
The girls had been in Australia for eight days and were scheduled to depart on August 16.
Authorities are working with the program facilitators to ensure that all necessary processes and notifications are being undertaken.
Superintendent Chapman noted that language barriers have complicated the investigation, and police are working with the consulate to address these challenges.
The victim and the suspect were staying with the same hosts, a man and a woman, and had their own bedrooms.
The hosts reported hearing a commotion and discovered the 14-year-old with the fatal injury.
Police have taken possession of a kitchen knife and are investigating whether there was any prior relationship or history between the two girls.
Charges are expected to be filed later on Tuesday.
The police are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist with the investigation.
Anyone with information can contact the Lake Macquarie Police District or Crime Stoppers on `1800 333 000`.