Coffs Harbour stabbing: Young surfer Kye Schaefer identified as victim of alleged beach attack in NSW
The “gentle” young man who died after an alleged stabbing at a popular NSW beach has been identified as Kye Schaefer.
The 22-year-old was discovered with stab wounds on Ocean Parade in Coffs Harbour around 7 am yesterday, before succumbing to his injuries in hospital.
The daylight tragedy has left the family devastated, as they plead for the Government to do more to stop knife-related attacks.
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“More than anything else, he just had a heart of gold, he really did,” he said.
“A gentle, caring nature was his greatest asset. We’re just broken.”
Only identified by his first name Ralph, the uncle confirmed his nephew was a stonemason and keen surfer.
Ralph pleaded for tougher legislation, expressing his frustration with the lack of stringent laws addressing knife-related violence in NSW.
“I’m angry, obviously, at this alleged attacker, but I’m angry at politicians. How long do we have to wait here in NSW?” Ralph questioned.
“He was just coming back from the surf, stabbed eight times. What on earth is going on?”
Ralph cited Queensland’s implementation of “Jack’s Law,” named after 17-year-old Jack Beasley, who was fatally stabbed in 2019 on the Gold Coast.
Jack’s Law allows police to utilise metal detector “wands” in entertainment precincts and around public transport, a measure Ralph believes could help prevent similar tragedies in NSW.
Premier Chris Minns has said he was looking at adopting the law in NSW after a spate of high-profile knife attacks that shocked the state.
Police are continuing investigations, urging anyone with information to contact crime stoppers on 1800 333 000.
