**Breaking News: Australian Backpackers’ Nightmare – A Tale of Survival Against a Notorious Predator**

In a harrowing incident that has sent shockwaves through Australia and beyond, two young backpackers, Lena from Germany and Beatric from Brazil, found themselves in the clutches of a violent predator during what was supposed to be a scenic road trip. The chilling events unfolded in February 2016 when the women accepted a ride from 59-year-old Roman Hines, a man with a dark and violent past.

What began as a journey along the picturesque Great Ocean Road quickly spiraled into a nightmare. After a series of alarming behaviors from Hines, the trio made an unexpected detour to the desolate Salt Creek, a remote area where Hines initiated a horrific attack. Armed with a hammer and a knife, he assaulted Beatric, who bravely fought back, buying time for Lena to react.

Hearing Beatric’s desperate screams, Lena rushed to help, only to be met with a brutal assault from Hines, who struck her repeatedly with the hammer. In a desperate bid for survival, Lena engaged in a fierce struggle, ultimately managing to escape and flag down passing fishermen who came to her aid.

Meanwhile, Beatric, naked and terrified, sought help from a group of young men who quickly understood the gravity of the situation. As police were alerted, the search for Hines intensified. He was eventually apprehended after getting his vehicle stuck in the sand, but not before leaving a trail of horror in his wake.

Both women were hospitalized with severe injuries; Lena, in particular, faced life-threatening blood loss. The trial of Roman Hines began in February 2017, revealing his history of violence against women. Despite overwhelming evidence, including social media logs indicating his predatory behavior, Hines was sentenced to 22 years in prison.

This shocking case serves as a grim reminder of the dangers lurking in the shadows and the incredible courage displayed by two women who fought against the odds. As authorities continue to investigate, the haunting question remains: how many more victims may have suffered at the hands of this notorious predator?