Teenage boy charged after alleged Darwin Show stabbing of 15-year-old boy

A 15-year-old youth has been charged and another 15-year-old is in hospital after the alleged stabbing at the Royal Darwin Show on Saturday. READ THE LATEST.

A photo from the scene of the alleged stabbing at the Royal Darwin Show on Saturday, July 26, 2025 after emergency services attended. Picture: Mango Inquirer

A teenager has been charged after an alleged stabbing at the Royal Darwin Show on Saturday night, which according to one witness, left many “traumatised”.

At around 8.20pm on Saturday, NT Police said a boy, aged 15, was allegedly assaulted by another 15-year-old boy with a knife at the showgrounds during the Royal Darwin Show.

The victim was conveyed by ambulance to Royal Darwin Hospital in a serious condition.

The alleged attacker reportedly fled the scene but after a search, was located by police just before 10pm at a residence in Palmerston and arrested.

Police say he has now been charged with recklessly endanger life and possess, carry, use a controlled weapon.

In a statement released on Sunday afternoon, an NT Police spokesman said the victim remains in a “stable condition” and the alleged attacker remains in custody.

“The Northern Territory Police Force have charged a youth after a serious assault at the Royal Darwin Show overnight,” a spokesman said.

“He has now been charged with recklessly endanger life and possess, carry, use a controlled weapon.

“The 15-year-old remains in custody awaiting a bail review.

“Police are still urging anyone with information to make contact on 131 444 and quote reference P25199834.”

Organisers express shock and witness describes ‘commotion’ and panic at showgrounds

Royal Darwin Show organisers thanked police, first responders and security for their quick response following the moment of panic that ensued at the showgrounds after an alleged stabbing.

The Royal Agricultural Society of the NT, who organise the Royal Darwin Show, said their thoughts are with all those affected by the incident.

The alleged incident happened at the Darwin Showgrounds on Saturday night. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

“The Show organisers were shocked by a serious incident that took place in Sideshow Alley on Saturday night of the show,” said a spokeswoman.

“Due to the quick response of security, police and first responders the injured person was quickly treated and conveyed to Darwin Hospital.

“Our thoughts are with the young person injured, his family, and with everyone affected by this distressing incident.

“Organisers would like to thank and commend the Show Security, NT Police and St John Ambulance personnel who responded so quickly to the incident.

“The matter is now in the hands of police.”

One woman who was at the scene on Saturday evening and who did not wish to be named said she heard a “commotion” in the wake of the incident.

“All of a sudden there was a lot of commotion and a lot of young people started running towards us, like they were trying to get away,” she told this masthead.

“I saw one young girl, maybe 15 or 16 and she looked terrified.

“I said ‘what happened?’ and she said ‘Someone was stabbed’.”

“A lot of very scared and traumatised young people.”

Leaders react to ‘unacceptable’ incident

Chief Minister, Lia Finocchiaro, released a statement in reaction to the incident saying changes to the Youth Justice Act will be pushed through parliament this week.

Blaming the “current reality” of NT crime on the former government’s “soft” policies, she said yesterday’s alleged assault was “not normal”.

Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said CLP will be delivering changes to the Youth Justice Act this week in Parliament. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

“It is not acceptable,” the Chief Minister stated.

“And under my Government, it will not be tolerated.

“We make no apologies for replacing the former government’s broken system and putting victims and community safety first.

“This week in parliament, we will be changing the Youth Justice Act to end the former government’s failed catch-and-release scheme.”

Selena Uibo Leader of the Opposition Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Member for Arnhem and Labour leader, Selena Uibo, posted on Facebook that her thoughts are with the 15-year-old victim and the families impacted by the “deeply distressing” incident.

“Territorians should be safe when they go out to enjoy events like the Darwin Show,” Ms Uibo stated.

“What happened yesterday is completely unacceptable.

“We urge the community to give police the space and respect they need to conduct their investigations.

“This is a traumatic situation, and it’s vital that we allow the proper processes to take place.”

Just two days ago the Royal Darwin Show posted on Facebook saying they would be bringing in “enhanced security measures at the entry gates” which included bag searches and security wanding at entry points.

“Please allow a little extra time for those procedures when you arrive, and have your belongings ready for inspection,” the post stated.

“These measures are all about keeping our community safe, while you enjoy the fun, food and festivities.

“We appreciate your co-operation and patience. We can’t wait to see you there.”

Originally published as Teenage boy charged after alleged Darwin Show stabbing of 15-year-old boy