A tragic incident unfolded at a bustling Sydney shopping center on Saturday when a 40-year-old man stabbed six people to death before being fatally shot by police. The attack occurred at the Westfield Shopping Centre in Bondi Junction, located in the city’s eastern suburbs. Assistant Police Commissioner Anthony Cooke reported that the suspect began stabbing individuals before he was confronted by a police inspector, who shot him after he turned and raised a knife.
Among the victims were five women and one man, in addition to the suspect. Commissioner Karen Webb stated that eight other individuals were injured and receiving treatment at hospitals. One of the injured was a 9-month-old baby undergoing surgery, and updates on their condition were pending.
“We are confident that there is no ongoing risk, and we are dealing with one person who is now deceased,” Webb emphasized in a subsequent briefing. She also clarified that the incident was not linked to terrorism.
Authorities have refrained from identifying the man responsible for the tragic incident at the Sydney shopping center and are actively investigating his motives, according to Commissioner Karen Webb. Assistant Police Commissioner Anthony Cooke emphasized that the investigation is in its initial stages and will be thorough and meticulous.
Cooke commended the actions of the police inspector, a senior officer who arrived at the scene and confronted the suspect alone, swiftly engaging and ultimately neutralizing the threat. He emphasized that her courageous intervention likely prevented further loss of life.
Officer Karen Webb praised the police inspector for her “enormous courage and bravery” during the incident at the Sydney shopping center.
Witnesses reported seeing numerous ambulances and police vehicles surrounding the area, with people evacuating the scene. Paramedics were observed providing immediate medical assistance to those injured.
Roi Huberman, a sound engineer at ABC TV in Australia, recounted sheltering in a store during the chaos. He described hearing gunshots and then finding refuge in a secure area of the store, guided by a staff member who ensured their safety throughout the ordeal.
