BREAKING NEWS: TERRORIST ATTACK IN AUSTRALIA
Sydney has been shaken by one of the deadliest mass casualty attacks in recent Australian history, after 3 active shooters launch a terrorist attack at Bondi Beach this evening leaving many people dead, including one suspected gunman, and sent dozens fleeing for their lives.
New South Wales Police confirmed late Sunday that nine civilians and one person believed to be a shooter were killed during a coordinated attack involving up to three armed offenders. The shooting unfolded shortly before 7pm at Bondi Beach, where hundreds of people had gathered for a public Hanukkah festival celebrating the first night of the Jewish holiday.
Authorities say dozens of gunshots rang out near Campbell Parade and a pedestrian bridge at the southern end of the beach, triggering scenes of panic as families ran for cover, many carrying young children.
Multiple shooters and mass casualties
Initial reports indicated at least three gunmen were involved, with video footage showing two men dressed in black firing weapons from a bridge overlooking the crowded beachfront. Witnesses described sustained gunfire, screaming, and people diving behind barricades and vehicles in a desperate attempt to escape.
Police confirmed that two suspects were taken into custody during the operation. A third gunman is believed to be among the dead. At 8.30pm, NSW Police declared there were “no more active shooters,” though the operation continued late into the night as specialist units secured the area.
Authorities also warned that the bridge used by the attackers was being searched for potential explosives, prompting heightened concerns that the incident could have escalated further.
NSW Ambulance said it was first called to the scene at approximately 6.45pm following reports of multiple people being shot. At least 25 ambulance units were deployed, including helicopters and intensive care paramedics.
Eighteen people were transported to hospital with gunshot injuries, while others were treated at the scene. Four patients were taken to St Vincent’s Hospital, with others transferred to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and St George Hospital. Ambulance officials declined to comment on the severity of injuries but confirmed that some victims included young children.
The scale of the emergency response reflected the gravity of the situation, with Bondi rapidly locked down and police establishing exclusion zones as terrified residents and tourists were urged to shelter in place.
Police Response
In a statement issued during the unfolding crisis, NSW Police warned the public to avoid the area and strictly obey emergency directions.
“Anyone at the scene should take shelter,” police said earlier in the evening. “Police are on scene and more information will be provided when it comes to hand.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the scenes as “shocking and distressing,” confirming he had spoken with the Australian Federal Police commissioner and NSW Premier Chris Minns.
“Police and emergency responders are on the ground working to save lives,” Albanese said. “My thoughts are with every person affected.”
Premier Minns echoed those sentiments, calling the reports and images “deeply distressing” and urging the public to rely only on official advice as investigations continued.
This is no secret, antisemitism is growing in Australia and the Jewish community have been raising concerns as there have been many synagogues.
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