Sydney Mall Stabbing Leaves Five Dead, Attacker Shot by Police

Assistant Police Commissioner Anthony Cooke informed reporters that a lone individual began stabbing people in the mall, injuring nine individuals before being shot by a police inspector. Five victims succumbed to their injuries, Cooke stated.

The incident unfolded at the Westfield Bondi Junction mall complex, bustling with Saturday afternoon shoppers.

Cooke emphasized that the suspect acted alone, and there was no ongoing threat. The identity of the perpetrator was not yet known, and authorities were yet to ascertain the motive behind the attack. While terrorism was not ruled out, Cooke described the situation as "quite raw."

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed condolences for the victims, acknowledging the tragedy on social media.

The mall was placed on lockdown, and the public was urged to steer clear of the area. The motive behind the attack remained unclear.

Videos circulating on social media depicted numerous ambulances and police vehicles, alongside crowds gathering around the shopping center. Paramedics were observed treating patients on-site.

Witness Roi Huberman recounted sheltering in a store and witnessing people leaving the mall in distress, as reported to the ABC news channel.