Six people have been killed after a man went on a stabbing rampage at a popular Australian shopping centre in Sydney.
Multiple others were injured in the attack, before the 40-year-old knifeman was shot dead by police at Westfield Bondi Junction.
Eight victims, included a nine-month-old baby were rushed to hospital as paramedics hurried to the scene.
The mall went into lockdown shortly before 4pm local time as hundreds rushed to exit the premises, with the police declaring a "major incident".
Police rushed to the scene and shot the knifemanAustralian Broadcasting Corporation
The offender was wearing a Kangaroos jersey, from the Australian rugby team, and was seen holding a knife before he was shot three times by a female police officer.
Reports of a potential second attacker are believed to be incorrect.
Authorities are telling people to avoid the area, as the streets remain filled with ambulances and police vehicles.
New South Wales Police Commissioner Karen Webb said the incident is not thought to be terror-related.
A police statement read: "A critical incident has commenced following the shooting of male at Bondi Junction.
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Paramedics are treating multiple victims at the scene
Australian Broadcasting Corporation
"Just before 4pm (Saturday 13 April 2024), emergency services were called to Westfield Bondi Junction following reports of multiple people stabbed.
"People are urged to avoid the area. Inquiries are continuing in relation to the incident and there are no further details."
One witness told Reuters: “Even 20 minutes after people were rushed out of the mall, I saw SWAT teams of people sweeping the surrounding streets."
A second said they saw a woman lying on the ground and took shelter in a jewellery store.
Penny Sharpe, the acting premier of the state of New South Wales, issued a statement that read: "I am shocked at reports of multiple casualties at Bondi Junction late this afternoon.
Westfield Bondi Junction in Sydney is on lockdown
Wikimedia Commons"My thoughts and those of the NSW Government are with the victims, their families and first responders at this time, as well as those who may have witnessed these horrific events.
"I am receiving regular updates from NSW Police and emergency services, as well as from the Premier’s Department. I will be receiving a formal briefing shortly."
Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, posted on X: "I have been briefed by the AFP on the devastating events at Bondi Junction.
"Tragically, multiple casualties have been reported and the first thoughts of all Australians are with those affected and their loved ones.
"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.”
