Karratha machete attack: Ben Justin Errington has charges upgraded to attempted murder

A Karratha teenager accused of hacking a man with a machete as he slept in his own home has been charged with attempted murder. Ben Justin Errington, 18, was originally charged with grievous bodily harm over the terrifying attack in the early hours of Sunday morning, with police describing the alleged victim as “lucky to be alive”. After further investigation, his charges have now been upgraded to attempted murder. It is understood the 24-year-old had a group of people - including Mr Errington - over for a party at his Withnell Way home in Bulgarra the night before the alleged attack. It is further understood some of the revellers had stayed the night. Police will allege the alleged victim fell asleep on the couch and woke up to Mr Errington hacking at him with a bladed weapon understood to be a machete. The man allegedly suffered severe gash wounds to his head, face and arm and was rushed to Royal Perth Hospital, where he remains in a serious but stable condition. Mr Errington was arrested by police at his home several hours after the alleged attack and was remanded in custody. Officer-in-charge of Karratha detectives Jason Blaine said the alleged victim suffered extremely serious injuries. “He is very lucky to be alive considering his injuries,” Det Blaine said. “We are still trying to ascertain the motive.” Police are still searching for the weapon used in the gruesome alleged assault. Karratha Detectives wish to speak with anyone who was near the intersection of Withnell Way and Searipple Road between 3am and 6am on Sunday 5 March 2023. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call Police on (08) 9143 7235 or report the information to Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or making an online report at www.crimestopperswa.com.au Mr Errington remains in custody and is due to appear in court later this month.