Police are searching for an 18-year-old man who allegedly stabbed a 16-year-old girl during a scuffle at the Kawana Shopping World in Buddina.
Officers were called to the McDonalds restaurant about 4:00pm yesterday afternoon.
Reports suggest an argument between an 18-year-old man and a 17-year-old boy turned physical.
The 16-year-old girl attempted to intervene and was stabbed in the face.
"What we believe was that there was an argument that occurred over social media," Detective Sergeant Chris Eaton said.
"And that argument has spilled over into a physical altercation."
'We know who you are'
The girl was taken to the Sunshine Coast University Hospital for treatment.
"It was a gruesome injury," Det Sgt Eaton said.
"The injury, we believe, is 10-11 centimetres in length and one centimetre or so in depth.
"She will be required to undergo surgery and most likely plastic surgery to have that wound attended to."
It is understood the 18-year-old left the scene on foot and is known to frequent the areas of Kawana and Mountain Creek.
Police have issued an appeal for the man to hand himself in.
"Make contact with the police," Det Sgt Eaton said.
"We know who you are — we are aware you are scared and upset.
"However, this matter is not going to go away.
"There is nothing to be gained by you hiding out or seeking to run."
