Marc Rajan Taylor allegedly stabbed Melody Neal at Lutheran College, Cairns
First photos emerge of student fighting for life after allegedly stabbed by male classmate while having morning tea with friends
- Melody Neal allegedly stabbed by classmate
- Marc Rajan Taylor charged with attempted murder
A high school student fighting for life after being allegedly stabbed by her male classmate has been identified as a talented artist with a background in graphic arts.
Melody Neal, 18, was allegedly stabbed multiple times at 10:35 a.m. Tuesday by Marc Rajan Taylor, 18, at Lutheran College in Kamerunga, northwest of Cairns.
Taylor was charged with attempted murder in Cairns Magistrates Court on Wednesday.
Ms Neal, who was on recess with her friends at the time, was rushed to hospital after the attack and remains in critical condition.
Her social media pages are full of cartoon anime drawings and last year she said she was thinking about writing a comic book.
Melody Neal, 18, (pictured) was allegedly stabbed several times at 10.35am on Tuesday by Marc Rajan Taylor, 18, at Lutheran College in Kamerunga, northwest of Cairns
Ms. Neal works in the hospitality industry and has jobs at McDonald’s and Fenglehorn Sauces.
Snaps from her Instagram show her on a trip to Singapore just three weeks ago.
The 18-year-old underwent surgery on Wednesday and remains in intensive care.
On Tuesday morning, Taylor allegedly drew a knife and carried out the attack in front of fellow students and teaching staff before being restrained, the court heard.
Marc Rajan Taylor was charged with attempted murder in Cairns Magistrates Court on Wednesday
A crime scene was declared and police found a knife at the school.
Detective Acting Inspector Jason Chetham described the incident as ‘very traumatic’ and said police are ‘investigating what the relationship between the parties is’.
Taylor will apply for bail if he is due back in court on June 12.
Peace Lutheran College said in a statement that support was being provided to students affected by the incident.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all members of our community at this difficult time,” the school said.
“The safety and well-being of all members of our community is our highest priority.”
“We ask the community to keep our injured student in their prayers.”
Ms Neal, who was on recess with her friends at the time, was rushed to hospital after the attack and is in critical condition.