A dramatic police chase that tore through the streets of western Sydney reached a violent crescendo in the inner-west suburb of Leichhardt on Wednesday, leaving two armed robbery suspects fighting for their lives after being shot by police.
The chain of events was set in motion around 1:30 pm when officers were called to a reported break-in on Forrester Road in Blacktown. Upon arrival, police attempted to stop a white Kia SUV, but the vehicle allegedly failed to stop, sparking a high-speed pursuit.
A Desperate Flight Through the Suburbs
The white Kia led police on a desperate flight, weaving through suburban streets as it travelled from Blacktown towards the inner city. The pursuit finally came to a dramatic end on the corner of Moore and Flood Streets in Leichhardt, a usually quiet residential area.
It was there that the situation escalated critically. According to NSW Police, two male occupants of the vehicle were shot by police after a confrontation. A crime scene has been established, and the area remains cordoned off as investigators work to piece together the exact sequence of events.
Critical Condition and Major Investigation
Both men, believed to be in their twenties, sustained gunshot wounds and were treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics at the scene. They were subsequently rushed to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital under police guard, where both are reported to be in a critical condition.
A major police operation is now underway. The scene at Leichhardt has been frozen for forensic analysis, and a critical incident team from the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad will now investigate all circumstances surrounding the shooting, including the actions of police. This is standard procedure for all NSW Police shootings.
Community Reaction and Ongoing Enquiries
The shocking incident has left the local Leichhardt community in a state of disbelief. The sound of gunshots and the sudden influx of police and emergency vehicles has disrupted the normally peaceful neighbourhood.
NSW Police have confirmed that no officers were injured during the incident and that a weapon was recovered from the scene. They are urging anyone with information, dashcam footage, or CCTV from the areas of Blacktown or Leichhardt to come forward and contact Crime Stoppers.
