Knife attack in Sydney: 6 dead, suspect killed in attack on large shopping center

LONDON– At least six people were killed in a knife attack on Saturday at a shopping center near Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, police confirmed. The attacker was shot by a responding officer.

According to police, a nine-month-old baby was among the eight other people injured in the knife attack.

The suspect has been identified as a 40-year-old man and his attack is not believed to be related to terrorism, New South Wales Police Commissioner Karen Webb said during a news conference on Saturday.

Police “are not afraid of the person who has an idea, in other words that this is not a terrorist incident,” Webb said.

Five women and one man were identified as the victims of the attack.

Webb said there was “no indication” that anyone was the target of the attack. “We will only find out over time,” she said.

“A critical incident has occurred following the shooting of a man in Bondi Junction. “Shortly before 4pm (Saturday 13 April 2024) emergency services were called to Westfield Bondi Junction following reports of multiple people being stabbed,” New South Wales (NSW) Police said. a statement after the incident. “People are urged to avoid the area. The investigation into the incident is ongoing and no further details are available.”

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese released a statement shortly after the attack.

“I was informed by the AFP of the devastating events in Bondi Junction. Tragically, multiple casualties have been reported and the first thoughts of all Australians are with those affected and their families,” Mr Albanese said. “Our thoughts are with those injured and we thank those caring for them, as well as our brave police and first responders.”

Commenting on the attack in Sydney, White House national security spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said the White House “stands with the Australian people at this difficult time” and wished those injured a “speedy recovery.”

“Our thoughts are with the families of those who lost their lives in the horrific attack in Sydney, Australia. & we wish those injured a speedy recovery,” Watson said in a social media post.