Overview of the Croydon Park shooting scene
Authorities continue to piece together what happened on Sunday night when a gunman fired indiscriminately in Croydon Park, a multicultural suburb in Sydney’s inner west. Police say the suspect unleashed a barrage of bullets from a unit above a Georges River Road business, striking vehicles, a bus shelter, and several bystanders. Initial police statements described the incident as a highly dangerous operation, with tactical officers engaging the suspect and exchanging gunfire before the suspect was arrested later that evening.
What police have confirmed so far
Officials confirmed that the gunman, a 60-year-old man, appeared to have no known mental health history and had little prior contact with authorities. Acting Superintendent Stephen Parry stated that the man fired between 50 and 100 shots over roughly two hours, with shots ringing out into a crowded street. A male victim in his 50s sustained life-threatening injuries after being shot in the neck and chest and underwent emergency surgery. He was later reported to be in a critical but stabilised condition in hospital.
Investigators say the suspect did not have a gun licence, and authorities are examining whether the weapon was legally owned. A 30-calibre rifle was recovered from the unit after tactical officers stormed the dwelling, where the gunman had been firing from the window. The motive remains unclear, and detectives have been working to interview the man, who is in custody at Burwood Police Station after injuries sustained during the arrest.
The broader impact on the Croydon Park community
Croydon Park is a bustling, diverse suburb that blends residential life with local eateries and small businesses. The shooting drew sensational attention to a street often busy with families and schoolchildren nearby. Local residents described the hours of gunfire and frequent shattering glass that left many shaken. Dozens of witnesses reported minor injuries—from cuts and shock to shrapnel-related issues—and at least 16 people sought treatment for minor injuries at local hospitals, according to NSW Ambulance. The incident prompted a temporary lockdown of the area and a rapid police response that helped ensure public safety during the event’s unfolding.
Official statements and community responses
Premier Chris Minns praised frontline officers and emergency workers for their professionalism under pressure, noting that there is “no place for this sort of violence in our state.” Federal and local representatives echoed the sentiment, stressing the need for swift investigations and continued public reassurance. The police, for their part, have stressed that the investigation continues on multiple fronts: confirming the suspect’s identity, establishing his motives, determining the gun’s ownership, and reviewing the events that led to the shooting. Acting Commissioner Trent King added that authorities do not currently view this incident as drug- or alcohol-related, though inquiries remain ongoing.
What happens next in the investigation
Police expect to interview the suspect in custody as part of a broader inquiry into whether there were accomplices or any underlying factors that could explain the attack. Forensic teams are combing the scene for evidence, with investigators examining door-to-door footage, ballistic evidence, and witness statements. The victim who was shot remains under medical care, and officials have provided updates on his condition as information becomes available. The investigation will assess whether any missed warning signs or security gaps could be addressed to prevent a recurrence in the area.
Community safety and moving forward
Authorities emphasise that Croydon Park remains a safe community, and police will maintain a visible presence as residents recover from the trauma of Sunday’s events. Local leaders have urged calm and patience while investigators continue to understand the motive and ensure public safety. As the area returns to normal, residents are encouraged to report any additional information to the NSW Police so that the full picture of the incident can emerge.
