“At this time police are treating it as a targeted attack and the investigation remains ongoing.”
Insiders say it was a suspected youth gang attack.
Victorian Leader of the Opposition Brad Battin said the horrific attack was an example of how more needed to be done to combat violent crime.
“Last night we saw the tragic outcome of the crime crisis in Victoria,” he told the Herald Sun.
“Too many Victorians have been victims of crime. Last night, two more Victorians were tragically added to that tally.
“When we talk about the crime crisis, we can never lose sight of its human cost. These are not just statistics, they represent lives lost, families shattered, and communities forever changed.”
Sam Rae, Aged Care Minister whose division of Hawke includes Cobblebank, told Sky News’ Sunday Agenda: “This has been a harrowing night for my community, these are incredibly distressing reports that have emerged.
“We’ve seemingly lost two children overnight.
“My job at this point is to support those families, support my community and to support the police to do their job in ensuring that we get justice for this heinous crime.”
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