At least six people were killed in a stabbing spree at the Westfield Bondi Junction mall in Sydney on Saturday afternoon.
Australian ABC News reported the evacuation of hundreds of mall visitors and workers following the incident. New South Wales police were called to the scene shortly before 4 p.m. after receiving reports of multiple stabbings.
Reuters added that eight individuals, including a child, were hospitalized following the attack. The assailant, who reportedly acted alone, was fatally shot by police.
The identity and motive of the attacker remain unclear, and authorities have not dismissed the possibility of terrorism.
“A critical incident has been declared following the shooting of a male at Bondi Junction,” stated the police.
In response, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to condemn the violence.
“Tragically, multiple casualties have been reported, and the first thoughts of all Australians are with those affected and their loved ones,” he posted.
Social media posts depicted crowds escaping the mall while police and emergency vehicles converged on the scene. Aerial footage showed a significant emergency response on the mall’s roof, where the car park is situated.
