Worker Charged in Scissors Attack at Sydney Luxury Hotel
A 31-year-old woman has been charged after allegedly stabbing her coworker with scissors in a shocking early morning attack at Sydney’s luxury Intercontinental Hotel.
Emergency services were called to the hotel on Macquarie Street in the city’s central business district around 2:20 a.m. after reports of a violent assault in a staff-only area.
Police said the alleged assailant attacked a 30-year-old female colleague in what Chief Inspector Gary Coffey described as a “frenzied” assault. The victim sustained stab wounds to her face, back, and hands before coworkers intervened and stopped the attack.
Paramedics treated the injured woman at the scene before rushing her to St Vincent’s Hospital in serious but stable condition. She is expected to undergo surgery.
Another coworker who tried to break up the incident suffered minor injuries and was also taken to the hospital in stable condition.
The suspect was arrested at the scene and transported to Day Street Police Station. She has since been charged with wounding with intent to murder and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. She was refused bail and is scheduled to appear at Parramatta Local Court tomorrow.
“We’re unable to determine a clear motive at this time, other than confirming all involved are employees at the hotel,” said Chief Inspector Coffey. “We also want to recognize the bravery of staff who stepped in—this could have been much worse without their intervention.”
The Intercontinental Sydney, a five-star hotel known for hosting high-profile guests including Princess Diana, Madonna, Elton John, and former U.S. President Bill Clinton, has described the event as an “isolated staff incident.”
In a statement, a hotel spokesperson said, “The incident remains an ongoing police investigation, so we are unable to provide further details. We are supporting our colleagues and the wider hotel team in every possible way during this difficult time.”
The attack, which took place in a staff area out of public view, has raised concerns about workplace safety and mental health in high-pressure service environments. While such violent acts are rare in Sydney’s hotel sector, authorities are urging businesses to remain vigilant and ensure staff have access to support and conflict resolution mechanisms.
Police continue to investigate the circumstances leading up to the incident, including whether there were any prior disputes or warning signs. CCTV footage and witness accounts are being reviewed as part of the case.
The shocking nature of the attack has drawn public attention due to the high-profile location and the extreme violence reportedly involved. Authorities are expected to provide further updates as legal proceedings progress.
