‘Unimaginable situation’: Family of child, 5, allegedly stabbed by woman break silence

A woman has been charged with attempted murder after a five-year-old Launceston boy was allegedly stabbed, and remains in a critical condition.

Rogan was taken to Launceston General Hospital with wounds allegedly sustained from a stabbing just before midnight on Tuesday.

A 33-year-old woman, whom police allege is known to the boy, also presented at the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

She has since been charged with attempted murder.

Rogan has been flown to Melbourne for treatment at the Royal Children’s Hospital where he is in a critical but stable condition.

A GoFundMe to support Rogan’s dad Josh was created by his aunt Juanita Atkinson and has already raised more than $42,000.

Ms Atkinson said her nephew had undergone multiple surgeries, and his dad was now with him.

“His dad Josh and I have had to travel immediately from Launceston to be by his side, and will remain in Melbourne for the foreseeable future while he receives treatment and support,” Ms Atkinson said.

“(He) is currently under sedation to allow his body to rest, and see the full extent of his injuries in the next coming days.

“He is stable but critical.

“Our family is currently facing an unimaginable situation.

“Right now, the focus is simply on supporting Josh so he is not alone, and has the support he needs so he can continue showing up and being present for his little fighter.”

The Atkinsons run Launceston heating, cooling and air ventilation company Heat Boss, the Mercury reported.

“We’re sharing this here because of the strong local community that supports our business and we know how powerful that support can be when it really matters,” they posted on Facebook.

“There is absolutely no expectation – even sharing the link or keeping our little fighter in your thoughts means a great deal.”