PHOTO: Susan Scardigno tried to save her colleague and friend when they were attacked at the real estate office where they worked. (9News)
A shocking incident of alleged violence has unsettled South Australia, as an Adelaide mother was purportedly murdered in her office by a recently released psychiatric patient. Susan Scardigno, in a courageous attempt to save her colleague and friend, Julie Seed, endured serious stab wounds during the terrifying ordeal at the real estate office where they worked in South Australia.
Surviving the unthinkable, Scardigno now grapples with overwhelming grief and guilt as the sole survivor of the tragic event. In her first interview with 9News, she recounts the harrowing experience and her determination to prevent such a tragedy from occurring again.
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The tragic event unfolded just days before Christmas when Scardigno and 38-year-old Julie Seed were alone in their real estate office. A man entered armed with a knife and hammer, exhibiting a calm and calculated demeanor with apparent intent, as per Scardigno’s account. The alleged assailant repeatedly stabbed Seed, and when Scardigno attempted to intervene, she became a target as well.
Shaun Michaels Dunk has been charged with murder and attempted murder. (9News)
Despite Scardigno’s efforts to keep her friend safe, Seed succumbed to her injuries, while Scardigno was left critically injured and rushed to the hospital. Almost a month later, as Scardigno’s physical wounds slowly heal, the emotional trauma remains profound.
The accused, Shaun Michaels Dunk, faces charges of murder and attempted murder in connection with the death of Julie Seed and the assault on Susan Scardigno. Dunk had been released from psychiatric care just two days before the tragic incident.
In the wake of the devastating event, Scardigno is determined to advocate for change to prevent similar occurrences. She plans to meet with South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas to discuss necessary reforms and ensure that the tragic loss of her friend serves as a catalyst for meaningful change. “It can’t be for absolutely nothing. We need to take that power back for her,” she emphasized.