Caboolture community rally behind security guard who as allegedly assaulted at work
A southeast Queensland community is rallying behind a security guard who is fighting for life after being assaulted during his shift at a shopping centre on Friday afternoon, with reports that he is a former police officer.
Moreton
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The 38-year-old security guard who was assaulted while on shift at Caboolture Square Shopping Centre on Friday afternoon is still fighting for life in hospital.
Friends have rallied behind security guard, Charles Lewis, with many stating on social media that he is a “lovely man”.
Moreton North Police Inspector Paul Ready said Mr Lewis was a former Queensland Police Service employee.
A friend, who did not wish to be named, said Mr Lewis was one of a kind.
“Charles is a quiet, caring, sweet, absolute gem of a person,” she said.
“I’m so angered by what has happened to Charles, there couldn’t be a more innocent soul for this to have happened to.”
Mr Lewis approached the alleged offender, who then allegedly punched him in the face – causing him to fall backwards and hit his head on the floor.
Mr Lewis was taken to Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital with severe head injuries.
A Metro North Hospital and Health services spokeswoman said Mr Lewis was in a stable but critical condition.
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On social media support for Charles has been overwhelming.
Vicki Fischle said she was praying for Charles: “Hope you’ll pull through buddy, stay strong and know there’s a lot of people praying for you”.
Kylie Wilson said Mr Lewis is “such a nice young man”.
Alaina Edwards said she had seen Mr Lewis just moments before the incident occurred.
“I hope he will be okay because he is a lovely man,” she said.
Inspector Ready said police investigations were continuing.
“We are not sure what was going through the mind of the (alleged) offender at the time, it wasn’t something that even the security guard saw coming,” Insp Reedy said.
McCasker has been charged with grievous bodily harm and wilful damage.
He appeared in Maroochydore Magistrates Court on October 10 after being arrested on Friday night.
McCasker was remanded in custody and is next due to appear in Caboolture Magistrates Court on November 25.