A man was shot dead at a Sydney shopping center on Saturday, police said, following reports that several people had been stabbed.
New South Wales Police said in a statement that emergency services were called to Westfield Bondi Junction just before 4pm (0600 GMT) following reports.
“People are urged to avoid the area,” the statement read. “Inquiries into the incident are continuing and no further details are available at this time.”
Westfield Bondi Junction Shopping Center in Sydney, Australia.
Sydney Morning Herald | Fairfax Media | Getty Images
According to news website news.com.au, hundreds of people were evacuated from the shopping center following the incident. National broadcaster ABC reported that some people were still trapped inside. Two witnesses told Reuters they heard gunshots.
“Even 20 minutes after people were rushed out of the mall, I saw SWAT teams clearing the surrounding streets,” one witness said. One witness said they saw a woman lying on the ground and ducking into the mall. A jewelry store.
New South Wales Police said action was being taken but gave no further details. Several posts on social media showed crowds fleeing the mall and police cars and emergency services rushing to the area.
This is a developing news story, please check for further updates.
About The Author
