Sydney, Australia: Residents in Sydney’s Inner West were left terrified on Sunday night after a gunman unleashed a hail of bullets from a Croydon Park apartment, firing up to 100 rounds and injuring multiple people before being taken into custody.
Unfolding Chaos
The violent incident began around 7:45 pm when witnesses reported continuous gunfire echoing through Georges River Road. The man, believed to be around 60 years old, allegedly opened fire from a window, targeting passing vehicles and pedestrians.
Emergency calls flooded in as police officers and tactical units rushed to the scene, establishing a wide exclusion zone. For nearly two hours, the suspect continued to shoot intermittently before police stormed the apartment and arrested him around 9:30 pm.
Authorities later confirmed that a rifle was seized from the residence. The man was taken to hospital under police guard, and formal charges are expected once he is deemed medically stable.
Casualties and Damage
At least 16 people suffered injuries during the attack. One man in his 50s was critically wounded after being shot in the chest and neck. Others sustained cuts from shattered glass and trauma-related injuries. Several cars, buildings, and shopfronts were damaged, with bullet holes clearly visible across the area.
Nearby residents described the sound of gunfire as “non-stop and deafening,” with many initially mistaking the sounds for fireworks. Families were urged to stay indoors and away from windows as police negotiated the situation.
Police Praise and Ongoing Investigation
Police officials commended officers for their courage, noting that many came under direct fire while securing the area. Investigators are now piecing together the shooter’s motive, though authorities have ruled out links to terrorism or organized crime at this stage.
Assistant Commissioner Trent King described the event as “one of the most extreme shooting incidents Sydney has seen in recent memory,” highlighting the extraordinary number of rounds fired.
Forensic teams remain on-site, collecting evidence and assessing ballistic damage. Road closures and heavy police presence are expected to continue while the investigation proceeds.
Community in Shock
Residents of Croydon Park have expressed disbelief that such violence erupted in their usually quiet suburb. Local businesses have begun assessing property damage, and counselling services are being offered to those affected.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area and report any additional footage or information that may assist the ongoing inquiry.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login