Sydney: Gunman opens fire on busy Croydon Park street,16 injured PHOTO
Sydney police say it is a miracle no one was killed after a gunman fired up to 100 rounds on a busy street in the city’s inner west on October 5.
A 60-year-old man was arrested around 9.30 pm after allegedly opening fire “indiscriminately” from a unit above a business on Georges River Road in Croydon Park, Caliber.Az reports, citing Australian media.
Police said at least one person was shot and 16 others sustained minor injuries during the rampage.
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon described the incident as “serious and terrifying”, saying officers were forced to take cover as “several volleys of shots” were fired. A female officer who had been in the force for just five weeks was among those targeted while helping civilians.
Tactical officers stormed the property and arrested the suspect, who was taken to hospital under police guard for treatment before being deemed fit for questioning. A high-calibre rifle with a magazine, but not an automatic weapon, was seized at the scene.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Trent King called the attack “almost unprecedented in Sydney”, while Acting Superintendent Stephen Parry confirmed police were not the intended target and that the suspect had no known mental health or criminal history.
NSW Premier Chris Minns praised the “incredible bravery” of officers who responded, saying their actions reflected “the very best” of the state’s police force.
A man in his 50s remains in a serious condition after being shot while sitting in a car with his family. Police have ruled out links to terrorism or gang activity, and investigations continue.
By Aghakazim Guliyev