What happened in Croydon Park?
Residents of Sydney’s inner west were shaken on Sunday night as a gunman discharged a large number of shots across a two-hour window, injuring bystanders and causing extensive damage to vehicles and properties. Police say as many as 50 to 100 shots were fired between 7:45 pm and 9:30 pm, with motorists and pedestrians caught in the chaos on Georges River Road.
The arrest and ongoing investigation
Law enforcement deployed the Tactical Police Unit to arrest a 60-year-old man associated with a unit above a business on the busy road. He is in police custody at Bankstown Hospital and expected to be questioned and charged on Monday. Police recovered firearms, including a high-calibre rifle, at the scene. Investigators are reviewing body-worn camera footage to understand the sequence of events and any potential motives.
Impact on the community
The incident led to street closures and a lockdown in the area as officers secured the scene. Paramedics treated 16 people at the site for minor injuries, with some affected by shattered glass or shock. Two individuals required hospital care, including a taxi driver in his 50s who sustained injuries to the neck and head and remains in a serious but stable condition.
Statements from law enforcement
Acting Superintendent Stephen Parry described the scene as highly dangerous and noted that the exact number of shots could vary as daylight revealed a clearer picture. NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon confirmed that some officers were fired upon during the incident, praising their bravery under fire. He added that there is no known link to terrorism or gang activity at this stage, although the motive remains under investigation.
Public safety and ongoing response
Authorities emphasized that the risk to the public was mitigated by rapid police response and the quick securing of the area. The incident has prompted a review of security protocols for responding officers and a broader discussion about gun violence in urban areas. Local residents are urged to contact police with any information that could aid the investigation.
A moment of reflection
As the community recovers, residents reflect on how quickly a night of ordinary activity can turn dangerous. Officials reassured the public that every effort is being made to understand what happened and to prevent a recurrence in the future.
