Everything About the Stabbing Incident in Bukit Timah’s St Joseph’s Church That is Known So Far

On the evening of 9 November, a priest was stabbed mid-service at St Joseph’s Church, located along Upper Bukit Timah Road.

The incident, which took place during the Holy Communion, left parish priest Father Christopher Lee injured.

A 37-year-old Singaporean Sinhalese male, identified as the alleged assailant, was apprehended following the attack.

According to Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam, his religion, which he had previously declared to ICA, is Christian.

Father Christopher is reportedly in stable condition after being transported to the National University Hospital for treatment.

What Happened

According to parishioners present at the scene, the attack occurred around 6.15pm, and the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) was notified at approximately 6.30pm.

As Father Christopher conducted the mass, a witness reported that the suspect, who was seated among the congregation, approached the priest under the pretense of receiving communion.

Instead, he brandished a small knife, attacking Father Christopher near his face.

Some attendees rushed to assist the priest, while others were instructed to stay seated and avoid blocking ambulance access.

Father Christopher was conscious as paramedics arrived and transported him to the hospital.

Parishioners described the scene as tense and chaotic, with many remaining in prayer for the priest’s recovery after the service concluded.

Authorities arrived shortly after the incident, and witnesses reported seeing as many as eight police vehicles and around 20 officers securing the church grounds.

Police spoke with those seated near the alleged attacker, who reportedly left a bag behind before attempting to flee the scene.

Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong publicly expressed shock and condemned the violent act, stating that violence of any form is unacceptable, especially in places of worship. “The relevant authorities will investigate this incident and address it appropriately,” Mr Tong wrote in a social media post at 8pm.