Crowds evacuated a Sydney shopping mall close to Bondi Beach in Australia. Police have verified that a minimum of six individuals were killed and numerous others, including a child, were taken to a nearby hospital after the incident that involved numerous stabbings and a potential shooting.

Local media outlets stated that gunfire was heard within the Westfield Mall at Bondi Junction, near Bondi Beach, a popular destination for locals and tourists.

Police have declared a critical incident after a male was shot following reports of multiple stabbings.

“A critical incident has commenced following the shooting of a male at Bondi Junction. Just before 4 pm (Saturday 13 April 2024), emergency services were called to Westfield Bondi Junction following reports of multiple people stabbed," said New South Wales (NSW) Police in a statement following the incident. "People are urged to avoid the area. Inquiries are continuing in relation to the incident and there are no further details.”

Another video footage of the incident happened in Sydney, Australia 🇦🇺 pic.twitter.com/ANcPbAirE2

— Bonjour (@imromec) April 13, 2024

In a press conference on Saturday evening, NSW Police confirmed that at least five individuals had been killed, and the assailant was shot dead by a responding police officer. The area has been evacuated, and videos on social media depict numerous ambulances and police vehicles responding to the scene.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese released a statement shortly after the attack.

“I have been briefed by the AFP on the devastating events at Bondi Junction. Tragically, multiple casualties have been reported and the first thoughts of all Australians are with those affected and their loved ones," said Albanese. "Our hearts go out to those injured and we offer our thanks to those caring for them as well as our brave police and first responders.”