Several people have lost their lives and at least two police officers were injured during a shooting incident at Sydney’s Bondi Beach on Sunday evening, according to law enforcement sources. The situation triggered a major emergency response as authorities rushed to secure the area.
New South Wales Police confirmed that two individuals have been taken into custody. However, officials said the operation was still active and urged the public to stay away from the beach and surrounding areas.
In an official message shared online, police described the situation as a developing incident and asked anyone nearby to immediately seek shelter. Authorities said more details would be released once the situation became clearer.
Emergency services were deployed on a large scale, with more than 25 units involved, including ambulance crews, specialist medical teams, helicopters, and tactical police units. NSW Ambulance confirmed that multiple injured people were treated at the scene, with several patients transported to hospitals across Sydney for urgent care.
At this stage, police have not confirmed the motive behind the shooting or whether a specific event was targeted. Reports indicate that a public Chanukah by the Sea gathering had been scheduled nearby and had already begun when the incident occurred.
Eyewitness footage from the beach showed scenes of fear and confusion, with injured people lying on the ground as paramedics provided emergency treatment. Many beachgoers were seen fleeing the area, some with visible injuries and bloodstained clothing.
A local resident dining at a nearby restaurant described hearing what initially sounded like fireworks before realising it was gunfire. Panic quickly spread as crowds ran along the shoreline searching for safety. Sirens, helicopters, and emergency vehicles soon filled the area, adding to the sense of alarm.
The witness said people were running in different directions, unsure where the danger was coming from. Later, additional gunfire was heard, which some believed may have been police responding. Even after the noise reduced, uncertainty remained, leaving many terrified and confused.
Political leaders reacted swiftly to the incident. NSW Premier Chris Minns said the images and reports coming from Bondi were deeply upsetting and urged residents to follow instructions from authorities. He assured the public that updates would be provided as more information becomes available.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also expressed his concern, calling the incident shocking and distressing. He praised emergency responders working at the scene and said his thoughts were with everyone affected by the tragedy.
Investigations are ongoing as police continue to secure the area and piece together what led to the violence.