Police have arrested a 48-year-old man in connection with an alleged axe attack on his parents and brother. The suspect, Peter O'Ryan, was taken into custody Tuesday night after being spotted loitering near the scene of the incident in Tyers, Victoria.
The alleged attack occurred on Saturday when an argument at the family home escalated. Police allege O'Ryan first attacked his brother with an axe before turning on his elderly mother and father. He then fled the scene on foot, initiating a four-day manhunt.
Victoria Police Detective Senior Sergeant Rodney Findlay described the incident as among the most serious he has encountered. "I've been working in family violence a long time. This is some of the most serious offending I've ever seen," Findlay stated.
O'Ryan's father, 77, and brother, 47, sustained life-threatening injuries and remain in critical condition at Alfred Hospital, where they underwent immediate surgery. His mother, 74, was transported to the hospital with critical injuries and is reportedly in stable condition. She was able to provide limited details about the assault.
Police conducted extensive searches over the preceding days. O'Ryan is expected to be interviewed regarding the incident. Authorities thanked the public for their assistance in locating the suspect.