Police Shoot Dead Sydney Mall Attacker After Fatal Stabbing Spree

Police shot dead an attacker who fatally knifed five people in a Sydney mall on Saturday, prompting hundreds to flee the scene.

Authorities disclosed that a police officer discharged her firearm after the assailant engaged with nine people at the busy Westfield Bondi Junction shopping centre.

New South Wales Police Assistant Commissioner Anthony Cooke confirmed the attacker’s death and the tragic toll of five fatalities.

Authorities stated they have no indication of the assailant’s motive, in a country known for its stringent gun and knife laws, making such attacks rare.

Emergency services rushed to the mall just before 4 pm (0600 GMT) following reports of the stabbings, with eight individuals, including a child, transported to hospitals, according to a New South Wales Ambulance spokesperson.

Eyewitness accounts described scenes of horror and chaos, with one witness recalling seeing a mother holding and comforting a baby with stab wounds.

Others reported hearing shots fired and witnessing the swift response of SWAT teams and emergency services.

An eyewitness recounted the decisive action of the police officer in neutralizing the attacker at Sydney mall, potentially averting further harm.

Social media posts captured the panic as crowds fled the mall, while authorities mobilized to secure the area.

Australian Prime Minister Antony Albanese expressed sympathy for the injured and gratitude for the responders in a post on social media.