DALBY — A 23-year-old father is in serious condition after being stabbed twice during a random, unprovoked attack while walking with his partner and their baby in a pram. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday afternoon, has left the local community in deep shock.

The terrifying incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. on May 6, 2026, as the young family walked along the Myall Creek footpath near Moreton Street. A 46-year-old man reportedly approached them with sudden aggression and, after allegedly threatening the father, produced a knife and stabbed him twice in the left upper arm. The victim was initially taken to Dalby Hospital by his family before being airlifted to the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital in serious condition.

Following the attack, the offender fled the scene, prompting a rapid police response to secure the area and locate the suspect. Officers successfully apprehended the 46-year-old Dalby man near Oakwood Street just after 4:00 p.m. that same afternoon.

He has since been charged with one count of acts intended to cause grievous bodily harm and is scheduled to appear in the Dalby Magistrates Court on Thursday, May 7. Police confirmed that the two men were not known to each other, describing the assault as a random and unprovoked act of violence.

Detective Inspector Andrew Trenerry described the incident as "highly unusual" for the local park area, emphasizing the trauma experienced by the family and those who witnessed it. In response, authorities reiterated their commitment to "Jack's Law," utilizing regular resources and wanding operations to target individuals carrying knives in public spaces.

While the offender is currently in custody, police are continuing to search the park for the weapon used in the attack. Investigators are also looking into whether drugs were a factor in the incident and urge anyone with further information to contact Policelink or Crime Stoppers.

The Dalby community remains on edge as the young father recovers from the injuries sustained during what was meant to be a routine afternoon walk with his family.