A foreign national, accused of pouring boiling coffee on a baby boy in a Brisbane park last month, left Australia just 12 hours before police confirmed his identity, authorities have reported.
On August 27, nine-month-old Luka suffered severe burns at Stones Corner while sitting on a picnic rug with his mother and another baby and mother. Luka has since undergone multiple surgeries. Police stated the 33-year-old suspect was in New South Wales on August 28 and departed Sydney Airport on August 31.
Detective Inspector Paul Dalton explained that the suspect used his own passport to leave the country a day before police identified him. A warrant has been issued for acts intending to cause grievous bodily harm, which could result in a life sentence.
Police initially described the incident as “almost like an ambush.” Luka’s parents expressed their devastation upon learning that the suspect had fled. Luka’s mother shared her ongoing fear and anxiety since the attack, saying, “I had no idea where this person was. Returning home caused panic attacks, and I still feel anxiety in public.”
Detective Inspector Dalton noted that the suspect appeared to be aware of police methods and had engaged in counter-surveillance, complicating the investigation. Despite the complexity, he said the motive remains unclear, a rarity in such cases.
The suspect’s name and current location remain undisclosed to protect the investigation. The man, described as being between 30 and 40 years old with a tanned complexion, has been traveling in and out of Australia since 2019. He was lawful during each visit, but police have found no adverse records on him.
CCTV footage captured the suspect, and police have alerted various jurisdictions. The man’s former colleagues have been interviewed, but no family members in Australia have been identified. Detective Dalton did not rule out sending Queensland detectives abroad to continue the search.
Luka’s father reported that despite the boy being in “good spirits,” his recovery will be lengthy. The baby recently had a “pre-skin graft” procedure and may need additional grafts in the future.
Detective Dalton reaffirmed the commitment to finding the suspect, stating, “We will keep going until we find him.” He added that Queensland Police Service (QPS) remains dedicated to bringing the suspect to justice and urged the public to come forward with any information.
