Australian police said on Sunday that a 40-year-old itinerant with mental illness was responsible for a Sydney shopping centre stabbing spree that killed six people, including a new mother whose nine-month-old baby is still in the hospital with serious wounds.
Also read: Johnson’s bail application reveals alleged fraud, threats, and business struggles
According to New South Wales police Assistant Commissioner Anthony Cooke, the assailant, Joel Cauchi of Queensland, was shot and killed by a senior police officer on the scene on Saturday.
Five women and one male security guard were killed in the attack, which occurred as Cauchi roved through a crowded shopping centre in the city’s Bondi Junction neighbourhood wielding a large knife. Twelve more people are still hospitalised.
Cauchi was apprehended and shot dead by a single senior police officer, Amy Scott, who was immediately hailed as a “hero” by Australia’s prime minister for saving countless lives.
Police said he was diagnosed with a mental health issue at the age of 17, but they had no idea why he became violent.
Unleash your inner explorer with these incredible car deals, all priced under 100k. Find car listings here.
His parents issued a statement through the police, expressing their condolences to their son’s victims and families.
They also sent a message of “support” to the officer who killed him, “expressing their concern for her welfare.”
According to Queensland police, Cauchi has made contact with officers several times in the last four to five years but has never been arrested or charged with a crime.
He is believed to have travelled to Sydney about a month ago and rented a small storage unit there. It contained personal belongings, including a boogie board.
Cauchi’s parents stated that their son had recently been living in a vehicle and hostels, and that he only communicated with them via text messages on occasion.
Cape {town} Etc discount: Enjoy magnificent views of Cape Town in a Hopper for R1 565. Get the deal here.
Also read:
Picture: David Gray / AFP