Man Threatens Staff at St Andrew’s Cathedral School, Triggers Lockdown

St Andrew’s Cathedral School in Sydney was forced into lockdown after a man threatened staff and entered a classroom, sparking a swift police response.

Lockdown Triggered by On-Campus Threat

The incident unfolded on Monday morning, 20 May, when a 46-year-old man, later identified by police as Marc Ben James O’Har, entered the school without permission. He threatened a security guard, reportedly saying, “Don’t touch me or I will jab you with a needle,” before making his way inside the building and reaching a classroom with students.

*Photo Credit: St Andrew’s Cathedral School/Facebook*

Staff placed the school into lockdown as police searched room by room, though the man wasn’t found on campus at the time. He was later arrested around midday at a Surry Hills hotel, where he was reportedly acting erratically. Police said he had no connection to St Andrew’s Cathedral School and appeared disoriented.

Charges and Courtroom Outburst

O’Har appeared in Downing Centre Local Court the next day, pleading guilty to unlawful entry and intimidation. He caused delays by shouting obscenities and refusing to speak with his lawyer, claiming he’d been naked during a prior attempt at contact.

*Photo Credit: KATRIN BOLOVTSOVA/Pexels*

Magistrate Greg Grogin intervened, and the accused eventually agreed to proceed with representation. The court also heard that a mental health assessment would be conducted before addressing an additional charge relating to goods in custody. Bail was refused, and sentencing is scheduled for Wednesday.

Community Impact and Past Tragedy

While no injuries were reported, the event sparked anxiety within the school community, which is still recovering from a recent tragedy. Less than two years ago, the school was the site of a murder involving a young staff member.

The school confirmed O’Har was not known to any staff or students and praised the swift actions of police and staff during the lockdown. The incident has highlighted the need for strong campus security and emergency planning, particularly in inner-city schools.

Focus on Safety and Support

The NSW Department of Education has not commented publicly, as the school is an independent institution. However, counsellors have been made available to students and staff affected by the event.

School leaders have reviewed safety procedures and said they’re confident in the emergency response, with families promptly informed once police gave the all-clear. Many in the community, including parents, have praised the school’s transparency and the quick actions of police.

Published 20-May-2025