A horrific scene unfolded at a busy Sydney shopping mall as a knifeman went on a rampage, killing six people and injuring several others. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and terror as they fled the Westfield shopping centre in Bondi.
“It was carnage,” said one witness who was in a nearby cafe with his children when the attack began. He recounted seeing the knifeman stabbing people indiscriminately, causing panic and fear among the shoppers.
The attack was only stopped when a female police officer confronted the assailant and shot him as he raised his knife towards her. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hailed the officer as a hero for her quick actions that saved lives.
Horrified shoppers described their shock and disbelief as the attack unfolded. One witness recounted seeing a woman and her baby being attacked, with others trying to help stop the bleeding and provide aid.
Police confirmed that five women and a man had died as a result of the attack, while a nine-month-old baby required surgery. Several others were being treated for injuries sustained during the incident.
Authorities believe they have identified the attacker as a 40-year-old man, but are waiting for official confirmation of his identity. Despite the tragic events, police do not consider the motive to be terrorism at this time.
The community is left reeling from the devastating events at the mall, with many expressing shock and disbelief at the senseless violence that unfolded on what was supposed to be a normal day of shopping and leisure.