A City in Fear, A Family in Shock
In the wake of the horrifying knife attack on a toddler in the heart of Tbilisi, the city remains on edge. The intersection where it happened—Pekini Street, typically filled with hurried shoppers and afternoon walkers—now feels different. More parents hold their children tighter. More eyes scan the crowd.
While the physical injuries suffered by the 3-year-old are being treated with expert care, the emotional wounds left behind—for the family, the witnesses, and the public—may take much longer to heal.
A Trauma That Will Take Time
Psychologists have already stepped in to support the family, especially the young boy, whose life was upended in a split second. Experts warn that children exposed to such sudden violence may suffer long-term effects, including anxiety, nightmares, and post-traumatic stress.
“This wasn’t just a physical attack—it was a deeply traumatic event that disrupted this child’s sense of safety and the security of his world,” said child psychologist Dr. Lika Melikishvili. “Healing will require both time and emotional support.”
The boy’s younger sibling, who was nearly attacked as well, is also receiving counseling.
A Growing Concern About Mental Health
As police continue their investigation, one question dominates public conversation: Why did she do it?
Though the motive remains unclear, many are speculating that the woman may have been suffering from untreated mental illness. Georgian media outlets have reported that she may have a history of psychiatric instability, though officials have not confirmed these claims.
This has sparked a broader debate across the country: Is Georgia doing enough to address mental health care, especially for vulnerable or untreated individuals who may pose a risk to themselves or others?
“Our society is failing to protect the public because we still treat mental health as something shameful or invisible,” said activist Nino Gelashvili, who works with families affected by psychiatric conditions. “That needs to change.”
Security in Public Spaces Under Scrutiny
Another pressing concern is how the woman was able to carry a knife into a busy commercial district without drawing attention. Some have called for increased security patrols, better surveillance, or even random bag checks in crowded urban zones.
Parents have especially voiced frustration and fear, asking authorities for more visible protection in areas frequented by families.
“Nothing can erase what happened,” one local mother said tearfully while leaving flowers at the scene. “But something has to change. We all feel less safe now.”
A Quiet Resilience
Despite the shock and sadness blanketing the community, a quiet resilience is emerging. Strangers have united around the family—offering support, donations, and messages of solidarity.
One shopkeeper near the site of the incident now keeps a small bouquet of flowers outside her door each day in honor of the child. A handwritten sign next to it reads:
“For the little boy. You are not alone.”
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