Westfield Bondi Junction in Sydney, Australia, was thrown into chaos on a Saturday afternoon as a horrific attack unfolded, leaving at least six people dead and several others injured.
The popular shopping center, located just minutes from Bondi Beach, was filled with shoppers of all ages when a knife-wielding man went on a rampage.
Witnesses described scenes of terror as a mother desperately tried to shield her infant from the attacker, while others ran in fear or sought shelter in change rooms. Bloodied bodies were seen outside luxury stores as the tragic events unfolded.
Authorities later confirmed that the 40-year-old attacker, who was known to police, was shot and killed by a lone officer at the scene. The motive for the attack is still unclear, but officials have ruled out terrorism as a possible reason.
Eyewitnesses recounted moments of bravery and fear as they tried to make sense of the tragedy. From shoppers using clothing to stop bleeding to a man attempting to fight off the assailant with a bollard, the community came together in the face of danger.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed shock and sadness over the senseless violence, describing it as an attack on innocent people going about their daily lives.
The incident has sent shockwaves through Australia, with many drawing comparisons to previous acts of violence in the country.
