Woolworths has pulled scissors and knives from its supermarket shelves across the country, after a security guard and a customer were allegedly stabbed at a store in Melbourne’s inner-north.

Brunswick man Rory McAuley, 20, was on Wednesday charged with attempted murder over the incident.

Woolworths has temporarily pulled knives and scissors from its stores across the country. Credit:Patrick Scala

Police alleged he stabbed the two men about 8am on Monday at Woolworths in Barkly Square at Brunswick. Both were taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, while Mr McAuley was sent to hospital with self-inflicted injuries.

Victoria Police said in a statement on Monday that investigators believed a 60-year-old shopper was standing in the checkout queue when he heard yelling behind him.

“He turned around and was allegedly stabbed in the upper body by a man who was in the queue,” the statement said.

“The victim moved away and the alleged offender ran from the store.”

Police alleged that, a short time later, Mr McAuley also stabbed a security guard who approached him after he heard yelling coming from the supermarket. Police later tasered and arrested Mr McAuley.

A Woolworths spokesperson said on Wednesday that, with the safety and wellbeing of customers and staff in mind, it had pulled knives and scissors from sale nationwide.

“Following a distressing incident at one of our Victorian stores, we’ve taken the precautionary step of temporarily withdrawing knives and scissors from sale nationwide,” the spokesperson said.

“We’re undertaking a risk assessment on our store safety controls before determining our next step.

“We apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate the understanding of our customers at this time.”

Along with attempted murder, Mr McAuley was also charged with intentionally and recklessly seriously injuring the men, threatening to kill and stealing.

He faced the Melbourne Magistrates Court on Wednesday afternoon. He did not apply for bail and was remanded in custody to next appear on February 9, 2022.

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