commuters assaulted and racially abused at gowrie station.

Police are investigating an incident at Gowrie Railway Station in Fawkner after a woman allegedly racially abused and assaulted multiple commuters on 5 April.

Officers responded to reports that passengers were verbally abused and physically confronted on the station platform at approximately 4.20pm. It is alleged the offender was armed with a hammer and a kitchen knife during the incident. A man was struck with a hammer, sustaining a minor injury to his hand.

The woman, who was reportedly carrying a small dog in a bag, fled the scene prior to police arrival. Despite a search of the surrounding area, she has not yet been located.

Incidents involving weapons in public places, particularly where there is an element of targeted abuse, can be highly distressing for victims and witnesses. In Victoria, victims of crime who experience harm as a result of violent incidents may be eligible to apply for financial support through the Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS). The scheme can assist with counselling, medical treatment and other recovery-related expenses.