A horrifying stabbing rampage at Westfield Bondi Junction shopping centre in Sydney has claimed six lives, including that of a two-month-old infant, in what authorities describe as a senseless act of violence.
The attacker, a 40-year-old man known to police, was fatally shot by a lone female officer during the chaotic scenes on Saturday afternoon. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the assailant moving methodically through the crowded complex, targeting shoppers at random with a large knife.
Heroic Police Response
The officer who neutralised the threat has been hailed as a hero, with New South Wales Police Commissioner Karen Webb confirming she acted alone in confronting the armed suspect. "Her bravery undoubtedly saved countless lives today," Commissioner Webb stated at a press conference.
Youngest Victim
Among the deceased is the infant whose mother also suffered critical injuries in the attack. Medical teams fought desperately to save the child at Sydney Children's Hospital, but the injuries proved fatal.
Other victims include five adults whose identities have not yet been formally released. Eight people remain hospitalised, with several in serious condition.
Community in Shock
The bustling shopping precinct, typically packed with weekend shoppers, became the scene of terror as hundreds fled the attacker. Many took refuge in closed stores as police responded to multiple emergency calls.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the incident as "a horrific act of violence" and expressed condolences to the victims' families. Flags will fly at half-mast across New South Wales in remembrance.
Forensic teams continue to examine the crime scene as investigators work to establish the attacker's motives. Police have confirmed they are not treating the incident as terrorism-related at this stage.
