Man accused of attacking elderly woman tells magistrate to ‘F&%$ Off’

A 92-year-old woman who was violently assaulted in broad daylight outside a Coles supermarket in Williamstown has expressed her gratitude to those who came to her aid, while the man accused of the attack sparked outrage after swearing at a magistrate during his first court appearance.

The elderly woman, identified as Barbara, was using her walking frame on Douglas Parade last Wednesday when she was allegedly struck and dragged to the ground by a man later identified as Sean McLachlan.

The unprovoked attack left Barbara concussed and with injuries to her upper body. She was treated at Western Hospital in Footscray and has since returned home to continue her recovery.

“I remember nothing of the incident itself, but I woke up surrounded by police, ambulance officers and kind strangers,” Barbara said in a statement. “I’m incredibly thankful for the care I received and grateful to be back home with my loving family and friends.”

CCTV footage shared on social media shows the moment the attack occurred. A man, reportedly carrying a blanket, approaches Barbara, strikes her across the chest, and then drags her down, leaving her unable to brace her fall.

The disturbing footage has sparked widespread condemnation. One local woman described the assault as “very disturbing,” while others expressed concern for the safety of elderly residents in the area. “It’s pretty terrible,” one woman said. “We have a lot of older people living here and they should feel safe. That’s changed in recent years.”

McLachlan, 39, who is homeless and known to some local residents, was charged with intentionally causing injury. During his hearing at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court, he appeared agitated and hostile.

When asked by Magistrate Bernard FitzGerald whether he had spoken to a lawyer, McLachlan lashed out, saying, “I just said I’ve already f*&^ing spoken to (a lawyer), are you deaf?” He then told the magistrate to “f*^& off”.

He did not apply for bail and his matter was adjourned for a week so he could seek legal representation.

Community members have reacted with shock, not only at the violence of the alleged assault, but also at McLachlan’s courtroom behaviour. Senior Victorian Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said she was “absolutely horrified” after viewing the footage and praised police for their quick response.

McLachlan is reportedly suffering from Huntington’s disease, a degenerative neurological condition. Barb Johnson, a former carer who knew both McLachlan and his late father, said he is deteriorating rapidly and needs specialist care.

“I feel sad for Barbara, of course, but I also feel sad for Sean. He’s very ill and needs to be in a proper facility that understands his condition,” she said.

As the community continues to reel from the shocking incident, many are calling for greater support for people with complex medical and mental health needs.