Incident Overview
Residents of Sydney’s inner west faced a rapidly unfolding emergency Sunday evening as tactical police and paramedics rushed to Croydon Park following reports of a shooting. The incident, which began around 7:30 pm, prompted authorities to issue a shelter-in-place warning, with streets such as Georges River Road and Brighton Avenue cordoned off to traffic. By early reports, shots were fired from a roof near a busy local McDonald’s, with unconfirmed witness accounts suggesting ongoing firing as late as 9:15 pm. Police confirmed that operations remained active at the scene as the investigation began to take shape.
Police and Emergency Response
NSW Police confirmed that a large-scale response was in effect, including specialist resources and air support. Helicopters circled the Croydon Park and Campsie areas as officers worked to establish a perimeter and gather critical information. NSW Ambulance updated that four patients had received treatment for injuries ranging in severity. One man in his 50s self-presented at Canterbury Hospital with a gunshot wound, while another person was transported from the scene with injuries yet to be fully assessed. Two additional individuals arrived at Campsie police station with minor injuries, including abrasions.
Public Safety Guidance
Authorities issued clear instructions to stay indoors and avoid the affected area where possible. A text alert urged the public to shelter in place, and motorists were advised to steer clear of Georges River Road between Croydon Avenue and Seymor Street, as well as Brighton Avenue between Georges River Road and Queensborough Road. Police also asked residents to follow directions given by officers on the ground. The incident has led to a broader alert for the community to remain vigilant for updates as information becomes available.
What We Know About the Scene
Initial details indicate a shooting involved an elevated position, with shots reportedly fired from the rooftop near a busy fast-food venue. The area at the center of the incident has been described as a hub of local activity, which has intensified the response from law enforcement and emergency services. By late evening, the situation remained fluid, with law enforcement prioritizing safety, securing the scene, and keeping residents informed through official channels.
Impact on the Community
The event has disrupted daily life in Croydon Park and surrounding neighborhoods. Residents have been checking in on friends and family via social media, while others have reported hearing ongoing gunfire. Local schools, businesses, and public facilities in the immediate vicinity are likely to be affected as authorities extend the lockdown and search operations until the area is deemed secure. As more information becomes available, officials emphasized that the public would be updated promptly.
What Comes Next
With specialist resources on scene and ongoing operations, investigators will work to determine the circumstances that led to the shooting, identify any involved individuals, and assess potential motives. The NSW Police and other agencies are expected to release further details as the investigation progresses. Residents are urged to remain indoors until police declare the area safe and to follow any subsequent road closures or safety advisories.
Bottom Line
As authorities work to stabilize a tense situation in Croydon Park, the priority remains public safety. If you or someone you know is in the affected area, follow official updates, shelter in place, and avoid the scene until authorities announce it is secure. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.