Sydney, Australia – A knife-wielding attacker was shot dead by police after he went on a stabbing rampage in Bondi mall, killing six people and injuring several others. The incident, which took place on a busy Saturday afternoon, has left the city in shock and disbelief.
The attacker, identified as 32-year-old Michael Thompson, reportedly began his violent spree at around 2:30 pm local time. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as Thompson indiscriminately stabbed shoppers and bystanders in the mall before being confronted by police officers.
According to police reports, Thompson was known to authorities and had a history of mental health issues. He was reportedly armed with a large kitchen knife and appeared to be targeting random victims in the mall. The motive behind the attack is still under investigation, but authorities are treating it as a terrorist incident.
Witnesses recounted scenes of horror and confusion as the attack unfolded. One witness, who wished to remain anonymous, described seeing Thompson slashing at people with a knife before being confronted by police officers. “It was like something out of a nightmare. People were screaming and running for their lives,” the witness said.
Another witness, who was inside a nearby store when the attack began, described hearing screams and seeing people running in all directions. “I saw a man with a knife chasing after people. It was terrifying,” the witness said.
Police responded to the scene within minutes of the first emergency calls and confronted Thompson as he continued his attack. In a dramatic showdown, officers fired multiple shots at Thompson, ultimately killing him and putting an end to the rampage.
In the aftermath of the attack, emergency services rushed to the scene to treat the injured and secure the area. The injured were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment, with some reported to be in critical condition.
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison condemned the attack as a “senseless act of violence” and praised the swift response of the police officers who confronted the attacker. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families during this difficult time,” Morrison said in a statement.
The attack has sent shockwaves through the community, with residents and visitors alike expressing disbelief and sadness over the tragic events. Bondi mall, a popular shopping and dining destination in Sydney, is typically bustling with activity on weekends, making the attack even more shocking to those who frequent the area.
Local authorities have increased security measures in response to the attack, with a heightened police presence expected in public spaces across the city. The incident has also sparked a debate about mental health care and the need for better support for individuals struggling with mental illness.
The investigation into the attack is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the motive behind Thompson’s violent actions. While the attack is being treated as a terrorist incident, authorities have not ruled out the possibility of other factors contributing to the attack.
As Sydney grapples with the aftermath of this tragic event, the city has come together to mourn the loss of the victims and support those who were injured. The resilience and solidarity of the community have been on full display, as residents and visitors stand united in the face of senseless violence..