CTC Port Melbourne tobacconist ‘recovering well’ in hospital after stabbing

A man accused of stabbing a 64-year-old Port Melbourne tobacconist allegedly launched his vicious attack on her after she refused to hand over packs of smokes.

A tobacco shop worker was stabbed in Port Melbourne on Tuesday. Picture: 3AW

A man accused of stabbing a Port Melbourne tobacconist tried to murder his victim, police allege.

The woman, 64, was rushed to hospital with serious injuries after she was allegedly stabbed inside the CTC Port Melbourne store on Bay St on Tuesday.

The man reportedly demanded that she hand over packs of smokes before he allegedly launched his vicious attack about 9.40am.

Local detectives arrested the 48-year-old Port Melbourne man at a home on Pickles St on Wednesday morning.

He was on Thursday charged with attempted murder.

He was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on December 11.

The victim’s son on Thursday said his mother was recovering in hospital.

“Thank you for your support, flowers and cards. The overwhelming support from the community in these last few days is greatly appreciated by Mum and our family,” he said.

“She is recovering well and thankful for all the well wishes from the community.”

Port Melbourne locals said she has been working in the smoke shop for decades and is much loved by those residents.

Originally published as CTC Port Melbourne tobacconist ‘recovering well’ in hospital after stabbing