Chaos erupted in Sydney's bustling central business district yesterday when a knife-wielding attacker launched a random stabbing spree, leaving one victim dead and another seriously injured.
Witnesses described scenes of panic as the violent assault unfolded near the busy Pitt Street Mall around 3:30pm on Wednesday. Police have since released CCTV images of their prime suspect - a tall, bearded man wearing a dark hoodie and distinctive red shoes.
City on Edge
The attack has sent shockwaves through Australia's largest city, with authorities warning residents to remain vigilant. "This appears to be a completely random and senseless act of violence," said NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb during a press conference.
Emergency services rushed to the scene following multiple 000 calls reporting the stabbing. Paramedics worked desperately to save the victims, but one man succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The second victim was transported to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in serious but stable condition.
Manhunt Underway
Police have established Strike Force Dribs to coordinate the investigation and manhunt. "We have every available resource working to identify and locate this individual," Commissioner Webb stated. "The community's safety is our absolute priority."
Authorities are urging anyone with information or dashcam footage from the area to come forward immediately. The suspect is considered armed and dangerous, and members of the public are advised not to approach him.
Witness Accounts
"I heard screaming and saw people running in all directions," said office worker Sarah Jennings, 28, who witnessed the aftermath. "It was absolutely terrifying - you never expect something like this to happen in broad daylight."
Another witness, construction worker Mark Thompson, described attempting to help one of the victims: "There was so much blood. We tried to stop the bleeding until the ambulance arrived, but it was too late for one of them."
The attack has reignited debates about knife crime and public safety in Australia's major cities, with community leaders calling for urgent action to address violent crime.
