Police would not comment on reports the man was tasered before his death.
Michael Bolton, whose 13-year-old daughter, August, was working at the centre at the time, told A Current Affair on Tuesday she secured herself in a cleaner’s room during the incident, “in one of the safest, quietest parts of the Sunshine Coast”.
Police tape at Habitat Early Learning on Tuesday.Credit: Nine
He said he and other parents picking up children could see the 28-year-old, who “obviously had some issues – very distressed, very upset – and there was all hope that once everyone was safe, he could be negotiated with and brought to some care, but that wasn’t to be, unfortunately”.
“It’s heartbreaking.”
Bolton said the intruder entered through the “fairly substantial” front door after breaking the glass, but staff and children were behind a second layer of fingerprint secured doors.
“To have the responsibility to protect those little kids on your shoulders … it must have been terrifying.”
The proud father also praised the staff and his “amazing” daughter for making “the best possible set of decisions”.
The company thanked Queensland Police, “who responded within minutes to resolve the situation”, and said counselling was being provided to all staff, children and parents involved.
“The centre will remain closed for several days as we work with police,” the statement said.
The incident was being investigated by the Ethical Standards Command, which is subject to oversight by the Crime and Corruption Commission.
Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek described it as a “particularly traumatic experience”.
“I think those early childhood teachers and educators are heroes,” he said.
“Any counselling service that is needed will be provided … from the briefing I’ve had, I understand that those educators have done an amazing job.”
The Peregian Springs centre opened in 2023 and is the first Montessori-only daycare run by Habitat Early Learning.
Habitat is a small Queensland-based chain, which also has centres in the Brisbane suburbs of Nundah and Ferny Grove.
If you, or someone you know, needs support you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
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