At least six people were killed in a stabbing attack at Sydney's Westfield shopping centre on Saturday morning. The suspect was also shot dead by police during rescue operations.
A total of nine people were attacked at the shopping centre at Bondi Junction, in Sydney's eastern suburbs. The stabbing spree was stopped by a police inspector who managed to fatally shoot the man who raised a knife at her. The inspector was alone when she confronted the attacker and was able to save lives of several people, said police.
"If she did not shoot him, he would have kept going, he was on the rampage," Reuters quoted a witness as saying, "She went over and was giving him CPR. He had a nice big blade on him. He looked like he was on a killing spree."
The condition of the injured are yet to ascertained.
Assistant Police Commissioner Anthony Cooke told reporters that there was no evidence at the scene that would indicate the suspect's motive or ideology. He added that the police have not ruled out terrorism angle.
Australian Prime Minister Antony Albanese posted on X, "Our hearts go out to those injured and we offer our thanks to those caring for them as well as our brave police and first responders."
While speaking to the reporters, New South Wales Police Commissioner Karen Webb ruled out the terrorism angle. Giving more information on the suspect, Webb said that the accused was a 40-year-old man.
"We know a little bit about this person but are waiting to confirm his identification...It is not a terrorism incident. He is known to law enforcement," she said.
"Let me assure you that we are confident that there is no ongoing risk and we are dealing with one person who is now deceased," Commissioner Webb said.
The Westfield Bondi Junction will remain closed on Sunday as part of the investigation.