24.05.2021
2 min read

Sydney man, 45, is stabbed and his flat set on fire in suspected case of mistaken identity

He received a knock on the door and was greeted by three thugs who forced their way inside.
Alex Turner-CohenBy Alex Turner-Cohen

Police officer lifts car to save trapped woman

A Sydney man was stabbed multiple times and had his granny flat set alight in what police believe to be a case of mistaken identity.

Around 11pm Saturday night, a 45-year-old man received a knock on his door at his home on Ringrose Avenue, in Greystanes, western Sydney.

Opening the door, he was greeted by three “large” males wearing hoods, who forced their way inside his home.

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The thugs then allegedly found a knife in his property and stabbed him in the arms, chest and head.

On their way out, they set fire to his bedroom and lounge area. He lay wounded inside the home until fire crews arrived.

The men knocked on this very door on Saturday night, in what would be the beginning of their violent rampage. Credit: 7NEWS
The man was stabbed multiple times in different areas causing cuts, bruising and abrasions. Credit: 7NEWS

The fire only caused minor damage to the house.

The assault victim was rushed to Westmead Hospital in a stable condition while police established a crime scene.

“At this point in time we believe it’s a case of mistaken identity,” a police spokesman told the media on Sunday.

It was only because neighbours saw the fire that the man ended up receiving medical treatment. Credit: 7NEWS

“We don’t believe this male person was the intended victim.”

NSW Police are having trouble investigating the crime because there is no clear motive.

“We are yet to establish a motive for the attack, which was extremely serious,” the spokesperson added.

The victim was not known to police, again making them believe the thugs thought he was somebody else.

The incident occurred in western Sydney. Credit: 7NEWS
No arrests have been made but police are on the hunt for three individuals. Credit: 7NEWS

NSW Police have not yet taken a statement from the victim, as he is receiving “ongoing treatment”.

“He’s quite shaken up,” the spokesman added.

He called the crime “quite violent”.

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Granville Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.

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