UPDATE: A teacher has been accused of stabbing his principal in a shocking incident at Keysborough Secondary College following the announcement that his contract would not be renewed. Kim Ramchen, 37, allegedly “snapped” after receiving the news and is now facing serious charges, including intentionally causing injury and assault with a weapon.
The disturbing events unfolded on Tuesday, when Ramchen armed himself with a knife from the school kitchen and confronted principal Aaron Sykes. Reports from Dandenong Magistrates Court indicate that Ramchen held a knife to Mr. Sykes’ throat, resulting in a cut to his lip and a stab wound to his arm. The school was promptly placed on lockdown.
After the initial confrontation, Ramchen reportedly returned to Mr. Sykes’ office with a larger knife. He allegedly threatened the principal again, holding the blade close to his face before he was subdued by staff members. Assistant principal Matthew Sloan had to forcibly remove the knife from Ramchen’s hand, causing him injuries in the process.
Police report that Ramchen had “mentally snapped” upon learning about the non-renewal of his teaching contract for the next academic year. A magistrate deemed him an “extreme” risk of reoffending, citing concerns for public safety, and denied his bail request on Wednesday. Magistrate Andrew Waters emphasized the potential danger, stating, “were Mr. Ramchen to snap, my view is there would be nothing that his wife and brother could do to stop him.”
Details shared in court reveal that Ramchen had expressed his anger to Mr. Sykes, stating he had “never been so angry in [his] life.” Following the confrontation, he was arrested at the scene and taken to a hospital for treatment of superficial injuries to his hands and fingers. During police interviews, Ramchen allegedly admitted to planning to “completely incapacitate” the principal.
Ramchen’s barrister, Abbie Roodenburg, argued for his release on bail, citing that the incident was out of character for him and referenced mental health issues. She indicated that plans were in place for Ramchen to consult with a GP for immediate mental health support. His brother, Lev Ramchen, expressed shock over his brother’s actions and was willing to provide a $20,000 surety for bail.
The case has drawn attention due to Kim Ramchen’s family background. He is the son of former television host Jacqui Ramchen, who disappeared in 1992 under mysterious circumstances. Her body has never been found, and their father was previously charged with her murder, although the case did not go to trial due to insufficient evidence.
With the community reeling from this incident, Kim Ramchen has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to return to court on January 6, 2024. He faces five charges, including recklessly engaging in conduct and intentionally causing injury. The situation remains tense as authorities continue their investigation, and the school community grapples with the impact of this violent event.
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