Fourth Man Faces Court Over Alleged Marketown Car Park Brawl in Newcastle
A teenager has made his first appearance in Newcastle court, becoming the fourth individual to face legal proceedings following an alleged violent altercation at the Marketown car park. The incident, which occurred in early January, resulted in an 18-year-old man sustaining serious stab wounds to his head and neck.
Details of the Court Appearance and Charges
Kani Tapara, aged 19, pleaded not guilty on Thursday to charges of assault occasioning actual bodily harm in company and affray. He was the last of four men arrested in connection with the brawl to face court. Tapara appeared in Newcastle Local Court wearing black attire, accompanied by supporters and his lawyer, who confirmed the not guilty pleas.
The court heard that the defence is seeking a brief of evidence to be served, leading to an adjournment of the matter until March. Tapara remains on strict conditional bail, with his conditions continued as the legal process unfolds.
Background of the Incident and Police Response
Emergency services were called to the Parry Street car park in Newcastle West just before 3:30 am on Sunday, January 11, after reports of a violent brawl. The 18-year-old victim was hospitalised with stab wounds and was in a serious but stable condition upon arrival at the hospital.
Police swiftly responded to the incident, arresting two other 18-year-old men, Riley Chapman and his cousin Tyler Curran, at Rutherford on January 13. Both were charged and granted bail the following day. Tapara was arrested at Newcastle police station on January 14 and was granted strict conditional bail to face court.
Co-Accused and Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Riley Chapman also had his matter mentioned in Newcastle Local Court on Thursday, with his case adjourned to April for a brief of evidence to be compiled. He faces the same two charges as Tapara. Tyler Curran remains on bail and is scheduled to face court in March.
In a related development, a fourth man, Brady Chapman, was arrested on Wednesday after 17 days on the run. Police allege he was the individual in possession of the knife used to stab the complainant. The 19-year-old has been refused bail and will face Newcastle Local Court in March, charged with wounding a person with intent and affray. He has not yet entered pleas to these charges.
Community Impact and Legal Outcomes
This case highlights ongoing concerns about public safety and violent incidents in the Newcastle area. The legal proceedings are being closely monitored as the courts work to address the allegations and ensure justice is served. All accused individuals are currently navigating the bail system, with their cases set to progress in the coming months.
The Newcastle Herald continues to provide coverage of court and crime news, keeping the community informed about developments in this and other local cases.
