Ten people were killed including two police officer and the gunman and 11 others injured, in a mass shooting at Bondi Beach, one of Sydney’s most popular public areas, Australian police confirmed today.
New South Wales Police said one man believed to be among the shooters was killed at the scene, while a second alleged gunman remains in critical condition.
The authorities confirmed the incident is no longer active, though a large-scale police operation remains under way as investigations continue, reports Al-Jazeera.
The shooting prompted an immediate security lockdown across Bondi Beach and surrounding streets, with armed officers sealing off the area and urging residents and visitors to leave and avoid the vicinity. Emergency services were seen transporting victims on stretchers as first responders worked to secure the scene.
Police have not yet confirmed a motive for the attack.
In a statement, opposition leader Sussan Ley described the incident as “hateful violence striking at the heart of an iconic Australian community,” noting that it occurred during the “Chanukah by the Sea” gathering.
“The loss of life from this attack is significant,” she said, praising police, paramedics and civilians who rushed to help the wounded. The investigations are ongoing.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has said the scenes in Bondi are “shocking and distressing. Police and emergency responders are on the ground working to save lives.
“My thoughts are with every person affected. I have just spoken to the AFP Commissioner and with the NSW Premier. We are working with the NSW Police and will provide further updates as more information is confirmed. I urge people in the vicinity to follow information from the NSW Police,” he said in a statement.
