Investigation underway after Croydon Park shooting spree
Police are investigating the motive behind a dramatic and dangerous shooting in Croydon Park, Sydney, where a 60-year-old man fired indiscriminately at members of the public on Sunday night. NSW Police confirmed that detectives have yet to uncover a clear motive as forensic teams comb the scene, and high-visibility police presence remained in the inner-west suburb into Monday.
What happened in Croydon Park?
The incident unfolded when the alleged gunman opened fire from a unit window above a Georges River Road business. Witnesses described hearing a series of rapid gunshots that lasted for hours, with gunfire striking vehicles, a bus shelter, and nearby infrastructure. Acting Superintendent Stephen Parry said between 50 and 100 shots were fired over roughly two hours, creating a scene of chaos and fear for passers-by and local residents.
Arrest and current status of the suspect
The man, identified by the ABC as Artemios Mintzas, was arrested around 9:30pm after tactical officers stormed the unit. He sustained injuries during the arrest and was taken to hospital before being moved to Burwood Police Station. Police say he had no known connections to organised crime or terrorism, and they are examining whether the firearm was legally owned or licensed. Authorities noted that the suspect had no documented mental health history in police records and had limited prior interactions with law enforcement.
Victims and injuries
One man in his 50s was shot in the neck and chest while driving with his family and was treated at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in a critical condition, undergoing emergency surgery. NSW Ambulance reported at least 16 people with injuries, including facial cuts from shattered glass and shrapnel, with some treated for shock. Two men required hospital care alongside the critically wounded victim, and others were treated for minor injuries. Police and emergency services praised the rapid response that likely prevented more devastating outcomes.
Community response and ongoing inquiries
Premier Chris Minns commended the bravery of frontline officers and emergency responders, describing the incident as a confronting and dangerous situation with no place for violence in the state. Local representatives reassured residents that the community remains safe and that authorities are pursuing all lines of inquiry to uncover a motive and prevent a recurrence.
The scene and its implications for public safety
Croydon Park, a multicultural suburb with mixed residential blocks and eateries along Georges River Road, has been left shaken by a shooting that disrupted a typically quiet evening. The proximity to schools and churches has heightened concerns among families about safety. Forensic officers were visible on Monday as investigators collect shell casings, trace the weapon, and piece together the sequence of events that left several streets affected by shattered glass and distant gunfire.
What investigators will scrutinize next
Detectives are examining the weapon used—a 30-calibre rifle—and whether any alternative motives, such as personal disputes or other crime activities, were involved. They will review surveillance footage, interview witnesses, and assess whether the gunman acted alone. While officials emphasize the lack of any known mental health history in police records, they are pursuing all possibilities to determine why this occurred and to prevent future incidents.
Looking ahead
As the investigation progresses, authorities will provide updates on the suspect’s mental health status, the weapon’s origin, and any possible links to previous incidents. The community remains urged to remain vigilant, with ongoing police patrols and public safety campaigns aimed at restoring a sense of normalcy in the Croydon Park area.
