Geoffrey Douglas Shepherd: Katanning workmate ‘saved man’s life’ by hitting alleged attacker with vehicle

A 52-year-old man was allegedly stabbed several times before his workmate saved his life by driving a vehicle into his attacker in Katanning yesterday. Katanning man Geoffrey Douglas Shepherd, 38, appeared in Albany Magistrates Court this morning charged with attempted murder after what police will allege was an unprovoked attack. Senior Sergeant Carlos Correia said two men were carrying out earthworks along the rail line near Henry Street in Katanning about 12.50pm when one of them was approached by a stranger — 38-year-old Mr Shepherd. It will be alleged Mr Shepherd produced a large knife which he then used to stab the victim several times in an attack which was witnessed by his workmate. Police say the workmate got into his vehicle, drove towards Mr Shepherd and struck him in an attempt to stop the attack. He then pulled his colleague into the vehicle and rushed him to Katanning Hospital, calling police while he was on the way, Sen. Sgt Correia said. Sen. Sgt Correia said Katanning police officers found Mr Shepherd in the area and arrested him after a foot chase. He praised the officers for detaining the man soon after the alleged attack and said a knife was found in his bag after the arrest. He said the alleged victim’s workmate had “100 per cent” saved his life. The 52-year-old was flown to Perth by the Royal Flying Doctor Service about 2.40pm then transferred to Royal Perth Hospital, where he remains in a serious but stable condition. Sen. Sgt Correia said the man’s injuries included a punctured lung. In Albany Magistrates Court this morning, Mr Shepherd appeared to be in pain as he entered the dock, stumbling up the stairs and grimacing as he sat down. He told the court he was injured and had been vomiting. He did not apply for bail. Mr Shepherd was remanded in custody and is due back in court on Thursday, October 28.