Teenager faces attempted-murder charge after alleged Umhlali school stabbing
A 16-year-old accused of stabbing a six-year-old girl at an Umhlali school will remain in a youth facility after the State opposed bail. He is due back in the KwaDukuza Magistrates’ Court on Friday.
A 16-year-old KwaZulu-Natal teenager is set to remain at a youth facility pending bail proceedings after being charged with the attempted murder of a six-year-old girl. The incident occurred in the Umhlali area, north of Durban, on Tuesday morning when the teenager allegedly entered a classroom, locked the teacher and pupils inside, and stabbed the girl multiple times.
Police confirmed the suspect was arrested on the scene and taken into custody. The National Prosecuting Authority has confirmed the charges of attempted murder, housebreaking, and trespassing against the minor. Following his appearance in the Child Justice Court on Wednesday, the matter has been adjourned to October 16, 2026, for a bail application.
The state intends to oppose bail, and the teenager will remain in a youth facility until then. The victim, found in critical condition, was rushed to the hospital and subsequently underwent surgery. Her condition is stable, and her family has requested privacy as she recovers.
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