SYDNEY, AUS – In a horrifying incident in Sydney, Australia, six people were fatally stabbed by a knife-wielding man in Westfield Mall, a popular shopping centre near Bondi Beach. The attacker, a 40-year-old male, was also killed, by a responding police officer.
The Australian authorities were alerted to multiple stabbings at the mall around 4pm on April 13, 2024, prompting a swift reaction from local law enforcement. The attack was not believed to be terror-related, according to New South Wales Police Commissioner Karen Webb.
She revealed the victims of the stabbing spree were five women and one man, adding that a nine-month-old baby is among eight individuals currently hospitalized due to the attack. The police, however, could not confirm whether the victims were chosen at random or specifically targeted.
In the wake of the tragedy, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese shared his condolences, offering the nation’s thoughts to those affected and their families. He commended the brave police and first responders attending the grim scene.
The White House also extended its support to Australia, through National Security Spokesperson Adrienne Watson. In a social media post, Watson expressed condolences to the families who lost loved ones in the attack, and wished a swift recovery for those injured.
The incident remains under investigation, and local authorities have called for the public to avoid the vicinity of Westfield Bondi Junction in the interim.