Grafton Stabbing, Police Investigate Fatal Knife Attack Near South Grafton

A fatal stabbing near Grafton, New South Wales, has raised serious concerns about community safety after a 35-year-old man died following an alleged violent attack on the Gwydir Highway.

Emergency services were called to the highway near Hay Street in the Waterview area of South Grafton at approximately 1 a.m. on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, following reports of an assault.

Officers from the Coffs/Clarence Police District arrived and found the man suffering from multiple stab wounds. NSW Ambulance paramedics provided emergency assistance, but the victim could not be saved and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police established a crime scene around the location as detectives began investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident.

Police Launch Homicide Investigation

Following the discovery, detectives from the Coffs/Clarence Police District worked alongside the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad to investigate the circumstances of the stabbing.

A specialist investigation, known as Strike Force Medine, was established to examine the evidence and identify those allegedly responsible.

During their examination of the scene, investigators reportedly recovered several items of potential evidentiary value, including a knife, a metal pole and an axe handle.

Early inquiries indicated that the attack may have been targeted, although investigators continued examining the events leading up to the victim’s death.

Teenager Arrested Following Police Inquiries

As part of the investigation, detectives carried out searches at properties in South Grafton.

At approximately 2:40 p.m. on September 17, officers executed a search warrant at a residence on Bent Street, where a 17-year-old boy was arrested.

Later that evening, police attended another property on Maxwell Street and arrested a second 17-year-old boy.

The first teenager was charged with murder, while the second was charged with affray. Both were refused bail and were expected to appear before a children’s court.

The arrests represented a significant development in the investigation, although police inquiries into the circumstances of the attack continued.

Community Concerns Following the Tragedy

The fatal stabbing shocked residents and brought renewed attention to violence and public safety in the Grafton area.

Incidents involving serious violence can have lasting consequences for families, friends and the wider community. The death of the 35-year-old man left those connected to him facing a devastating loss.

Police investigations also highlighted the importance of gathering reliable information and allowing the legal process to establish individual responsibility.

Investigation and Public Safety

Authorities urged anyone with information relevant to the investigation to contact NSW Police or Crime Stoppers.

The case remains an important reminder of the seriousness of knife-related violence and the impact such incidents can have on local communities.

Police appeals and court proceedings are essential parts of ensuring that allegations are examined through the appropriate legal channels.