The incident took place in a suburb of Sydney, with locals advised to stay away from the area
At least four people have been killed in a suspected stabbing incident in Westfield Bondi Junction, an eastern suburb of Sydney, local media reported on Saturday.
New South Wales police have confirmed that a “critical incident” took place following the shooting of an unidentified man in the area. They added that officers scrambled to the scene after receiving reports of multiple people being stabbed.
“People are urged to avoid the area,” they said.
While police did not provide any details on the number of casualties, the Sydney Morning Herald reported, citing sources, that at least four people were killed, with “many more” in critical condition.
Disturbing footage from the scene shows what appears to be a man armed with a knife chasing mallgoers. Other images from the area appear to show the suspect neutralized by the police.
Other videos appear to show two victims of the attack lying on the floor, with officers working to revive one of them.
⚡️BREAKING:
Suspected terror attack in Sydney, Australia. 4 people killed
Different reports coming in on whether it’s a stabbing or shooting attack. pic.twitter.com/0HO09GLMwa
— Current Report (@Currentreport1) April 13, 2024
According to another video that went viral on social media, the suspect met with considerable resistance from members of the public. One of the shoppers can be seen blocking his way up the escalator with what appears to be a long, bulky object.
🚨BREAKING: Four dead and multiple seriously injured in horror stabbing at Sydney mall with terrified shoppers running for their lives.
Images of the attacker holding a knife. pic.twitter.com/iObhYogh4b
— I Meme Therefore I Am 🇺🇸 (@ImMeme0) April 13, 2024
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese responded to the tragic incident by saying that “the first thoughts of all Australians are with those affected and their loved ones,” adding that “our hearts go out to those injured,” while thanking first responders and police for their work.
