UPDATE: Chilling details are emerging from a brutal incident at a childcare center in Peregian Springs, Sunshine Coast, where a violent intruder was found dead after a harrowing attack. Police were called to Habitat Early Learning at approximately 6 PM on Monday after reports of a man breaking into the facility, prompting a lockdown with five workers and six children inside.
The intruder, identified as Reubhan Ralph, 28, smashed his way into the center armed with a knife and began making threats, leading to a tense situation just before the scheduled pick-up time. Officers arrived within 20 minutes to find Ralph inflicting self-harm, leaving police in a desperate situation.
Acting Inspector Scott Wiggins stated, “Police were confronted with a male who had self-inflicted injuries.” Attempts to subdue Ralph using probes delivering electrical charges of approximately 1200 volts were unsuccessful, and he tragically succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
This incident has sent shockwaves through the community, with Police Minister Dan Purdie describing it as “tragic and horrific.” The witnesses, including police officers, have been granted leave, with uncertain timelines for their return.
The childcare center has announced it will remain closed for the rest of the week as staff and families process the aftermath of this traumatic event.
Ralph, who had previously gained notoriety as an OnlyFans creator, was released on parole in June 2023 after serving time for live-streaming a dangerous crime spree in a stolen car through South Bank Parklands in Brisbane.
Authorities are emphasizing the need for community support as they investigate this distressing incident. The focus now shifts to understanding how such a violent act could unfold in a place designated for the safety and care of young children.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
