A horrifying incident of mass stabbing at a mall in Sydney, Australia, has resulted in the brutal killing of at least five people, with multiple victims reported to be in critical condition. Police have confirmed that the attacker responsible for the stabbings has been shot dead. The incident occurred during the afternoon hours at a Westfield shopping centre located at Bondi Junction in Sydney.

Social media has recently surfaced with shocking footage capturing a crowd fleeing in panic and terror, desperately seeking to save their lives.

According to reports, the mass stabbing incident occurred when a man wearing an NRL jersey began randomly stabbing shoppers, including a woman and her nine-month-old baby. Police assistant commissioner Anthony Cooke informed reporters that the assailant attacked as many as nine people before being shot by a police officer.

Following the incident, hundreds of people were evacuated from the shopping centre, and authorities advised against visiting the area.

The Guardian reported that during a press conference, Cooke confirmed that a nearby police officer, who was alone at the time, shot and killed the attacker.

The officer stated, “She confronted the offender, who had moved to level five of the mall. As she continued to walk quickly behind him to catch up, he turned, faced her, and raised a knife. She then discharged a firearm, resulting in the person's death.”

Cooke further added that the suspect acted alone, and there was deemed to be “no continuing threat.” He mentioned that authorities were yet to identify the offender, and there was no apparent indication of motive.

He further stated, “I have been informed that there are five victims who have tragically lost their lives due to the actions of this offender.”

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the incident as ‘devastating’ in a tweet, stating, “I have received a briefing from the AFP regarding the tragic events at Bondi Junction. Regrettably, multiple casualties have been reported, and the foremost thoughts of all Australians are with those affected and their loved ones.”

The Australian PM added, “We extend our condolences to those injured and express gratitude to those providing care for them, along with our courageous police and first responders.”

Image source: The Guardian