Coogee Pavilion: Security guard filmed shoving autistic teenager, woman

Shocking footage has emerged of a Sydney security guard pushing a woman and a 13-year-old autistic boy to the ground outside a popular beachside venue.

Patrons at Coogee Pavilion witnessed the shocking incident about 3.20pm on Easter Saturday, where the security guard was seen dragging the teenager out of the venue.

Bystanders scrambled to get out of the way before the security guard forcibly threw the boy to the floor.

A young woman accompanying the boy repeatedly yelled at the security guard, saying the boy was only 13 years old.

In frustration, she shoved the security guard, who then shoved her back with such force that she fell to the floor.

“He’s autistic, he’s intellectually disabled,” the woman said repeatedly.

Police were called to the scene, but not by bystanders or either of the young people involved.

They were called by the venue’s security team who reported “malicious damage and assault of a security guard”.

“On arrival, officers were told a young person had forced entry to the venue, before allegedly smashing a glass door and getting into an altercation with a security guard,” a police spokesperson said.

“Police have commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, including obtaining statements from involved parties and canvassing for CCTV at the venue and surrounds.”

Merivale, the owner of Coogee Pavilion, said all circumstances around the incident will be subject to a “thorough review”.

“The venue immediately contacted NSW Police following the incident,” a spokesperson said.

“Safety of all our patrons and employees is Merivale’s highest priority.”

The security guard has been placed on leave pending the outcome of the review.

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