A grandmother is currently fighting for her life in hospital after being stabbed multiple times in the eastern suburbs of Perth. Emergency services were summoned to a residence on Jessie Road in Gooseberry Hill shortly after 5pm on Tuesday following reports of the stabbing.
Upon their arrival, officers found 60-year-old church volunteer Paulette Mountford with severe stab wounds. She was promptly transported to hospital, where she underwent emergency surgery and remains in a serious but stable condition.
The alleged assailant, identified as 72-year-old Christopher John Sullivan, was apprehended at the scene and subsequently charged with one count of attempted unlawful killing. He appeared before Perth Magistrates Court on Wednesday.
According to reports, neighbours attempted to provide first aid to Ms Mountford in the front yard of the property before paramedics arrived.
Mr Sullivan allegedly barricaded himself inside the home, leading to a standoff with tactical response officers who eventually managed to negotiate his surrender.
In a statement, Ms Mountford’s daughters expressed their gratitude to those who assisted their mother during the incident and those currently caring for her. They conveyed their anguish and disbelief over the ordeal their mother has endured.
“We are devastated and utterly heartbroken that our dear mother has endured such a horrifying ordeal. For such a kind-hearted person to suffer so deeply is hard for us to understand. All that we want at this time is for our mother to overcome her injuries, and we pray and hope that she gets better soon. She is a strong woman and we know she will be using all her strength to get better,” the statement read.
Ms Mountford, a dedicated church worker who has supported victims of domestic violence, was allegedly attacked by her partner, Mr Sullivan.
Neighbours reported hearing her screams and found her in the garden, applying pressure to her wounds before emergency services arrived.
After the incident, Mr Sullivan barricaded himself inside the house. Tactical response officers were able to negotiate with him, leading to his arrest without further incident.
Mr Sullivan faced court charged with attempted murder and indicated his intention to plead guilty, although no formal plea was entered at that time.
The court proceedings were temporarily adjourned to allow him to receive legal advice. Upon resumption, Mr Sullivan, represented by a duty lawyer, did not apply for bail and was remanded in custody. He is scheduled to reappear in court on 26th June.
My name is Kim Sara’s x Donnelly’s dad. I wish you all the strength to stay with us. You had a big influence on us in the good old days . I hope this message finds you I’d like too catch up with you after 10 yrs since . Get well quick. Kim.