At least seven dead, including attacker, in stabbing rampage at Sydney mall

Seven people are dead and others are in serious or critical condition after a stabbing rampage at a mall in Sydney, Australia, on Saturday. The attacker, who was shot by a lone officer, was among the dead, and a baby was among those stabbed.

New South Wales Police Commissioner Anthony Cooke stated that the attacker walked into the Westfield Bondi Junction mall around 3:20 p.m. local time, where he “caused harm” to about nine people by stabbing them with a weapon, most likely a knife.

A spokesperson for New South Wales Ambulance confirmed that a 9-month-old baby was transported to Sydney Children’s Hospital with a pediatric stab wound.

Surveillance video showed a man running through the mall holding a long knife, causing chaos as shoppers fled and others tried to stop him. Some shops pulled down their shutters to keep people safe, while hundreds were evacuated from the mall.

Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the attack “a horrific act of violence that indiscriminately targeted innocent people.” He offered condolences to those who lost loved ones and strength to the injured.

Prince William and Kate, the Princess of Wales, also expressed shock and sadness over the incident, sending thoughts to all those affected.

Westfield Bondi Junction thanked its team and law enforcement for their swift and brave action, with Albanese praising the police officer who shot the attacker as a hero for saving lives.