Panic swept through one of Sydney’s busiest shopping streets on Sunday when a gunman began firing from his apartment window, injuring 17 people. Local authorities confirmed that the suspect unleashed a barrage of bullets from a high-calibre rifle, striking both pedestrians and vehicles.
According to Acting Superintendent Stephen Parry, the man opened fire repeatedly from his elevated position, sending shoppers running for cover. Parry stated that the gunman discharged between 50 and 100 rounds before police were able to intervene.
“It’s unprecedented for Sydney to experience something like this, with such a large number of shots fired,”
said New South Wales Acting Assistant Commissioner Trent King, speaking to ABC Radio on Monday.
Police surrounded the building for nearly two hours before entering the apartment where the 60-year-old suspect had barricaded himself. The operation ended with his arrest and the seizure of his weapon. Authorities are now investigating the motive behind the attack, which remains unclear.
Sydney is reeling this morning after a callous public shooting in Croydon Park . Officers and members of the public came under fire as a gunman fire up to 100 shots from the window from an apartment on George River Road. pic.twitter.com/DrS5s5f5N4
— Naqeeb Hussain (@Passdarg) October 6, 2025
Emergency services responded rapidly to the scene, where shattered glass and damaged vehicles bore witness to the chaos. A man in his 50s suffered gunshot wounds to his neck and chest and was rushed to hospital for emergency treatment. Sixteen others were treated on site for cuts and injuries caused by flying debris.
Sydney residents have expressed disbelief at the rare display of violence in the heart of the city. Police have since assured the public that the situation is under control and that there is no ongoing threat.
“We’re very fortunate that we didn’t have more damage, more injuries, or indeed fatalities,”
King added, emphasising that swift police action and a coordinated emergency response likely prevented a far greater tragedy.
Authorities have yet to establish why the gunman opened fire, though early reports suggest he acted alone. Detectives are now examining his background and questioning witnesses to determine what may have triggered the shooting.
Residents and business owners in the area are expected to remain on high alert as police continue their investigation and forensic teams collect evidence from the scene.
Despite the fear and confusion caused by the incident, Sydney officials have praised both law enforcement and emergency personnel for their professionalism and speed in responding to an event described as both “shocking” and “unprecedented.”
Sydney is left reeling, yet the city’s composure and the restraint of its emergency services have helped avert what could have been a devastating loss of life.
