A 12-year-old boy has been charged after a small improvised device detonated inside a shopping centre toilet in Bracken Ridge, causing minor damage and prompting a police response.
Incident Inside Shopping Centre Toilets
Police were called to a shopping centre on Barrett Street in Bracken Ridge after reports of a loud explosion inside a public toilet. The incident occurred at about 1.30 p.m. on Sunday, 28 December.
The explosion triggered the fire sprinkler system within the toilet area. When officers arrived, they located a small improvised device that had already detonated. Police confirmed the damage was minor and confined to the toilet facilities.
No one was physically injured as a result of the incident.
Police Investigation and Custody
Following initial investigations at the shopping centre, police continued enquiries into the source of the explosion. Several hours later, at about 5 p.m., officers attended a Bracken Ridge address in connection with the incident.
At that location, a 12-year-old boy was taken into custody. Police allege the child was responsible for detonating the improvised device inside the shopping centre toilet.
Charges Laid
The child has been charged with one count of entering premises with intent, one count of damaging premises by explosion, and one count of stealing. Police stated the charges relate to items allegedly used to make the improvised device.
The child is expected to appear in the Brisbane Childrens Court on 9 January 2026.
Safety Assessment
Police confirmed the incident was not terror-related and advised there was no ongoing risk to the public. Authorities treated the matter as an isolated incident, and no further safety warnings were issued.
The shopping centre reopened following inspections, and normal operations resumed after emergency systems were reset.
Public Response
The incident drew attention online, with community members commenting on safety in shared public spaces and expressing concern about the seriousness of the offence. Police have not indicated any additional charges or further action beyond the court proceedings already scheduled.
What Happens Next
The case will now progress through the youth justice system, with the court expected to consider the charges when the child appears early next year. No further details have been released by police at this stage.
Published 29-Dec-2025
Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook
