Five victims have tragically lost their lives while over 8 have been injured following a frenzied stabbing attack by an armed lone assailant at a bustling Bondi Junction Westfield mall filled with Saturday shoppers in Sydney .
According to New South Wales Police, emergency calls from within Bondi Junction Westfield mall prompted the swift response of a lone police officer, who heroically confronted and fatally shot the attacker, potentially saving numerous lives.
Eight individuals have been hospitalized with knife wounds, including a baby, as a result of the vicious assault.
The heroic actions of a senior police officer, who was in the vicinity and swiftly intervened upon receiving emergency calls, have been credited with preventing further casualties. She courageously engaged the assailant and neutralized the threat when he brandished the knife.
Authorities have yet to ascertain the identity of the perpetrator, and there is no indication at this stage of any political or religious motives behind the attack. As per the video footage, an assailant wearing shorts and kangaroo jersey ran inside the mall with knife in hand.
Australian Prime Minister condemned the heinous act, expressing solidarity with the affected individuals and their families. He conveyed gratitude to the first responders and medical personnel attending to the injured.
In a show of support, New Zealand MP from Remutaka, Chris Hipkins, extended condolences to the victims’ families and emphasized the sizable Kiwi population residing in the area. He conveyed heartfelt sentiments to all affected by the tragedy, acknowledging the shared grief across the Tasman Sea.