At least nine people been killed in a shooting at Australia’s Bondi Beach.
Two men opened fire in the shocking attack, police said. One alleged gunman has been confirmed dead in addition to the nine victims, while the other alleged gunman was in a critical condition, officers said.
An additional 11 people – including two police officers – are reported to injured.
Sky News has seen footage of people lying on the ground, while others were shown fleeing amid the sound of gunfire.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the incident is “shocking and distressing” and that emergency services are on the scene working to save lives.
Police said the number of casualties is expected to change and urged people to avoid the area.
“We continue to urge people to avoid the area. Please obey ALL police directions. Do not cross police lines,” New South Wales police said on social media.
“I saw at least 10 people on the ground and blood everywhere,” 30-year-old local Harry Wilson, who witnessed the shooting, told the Sydney Morning Herald.
Information about who carried out the attack or a possible motive – including if the incident is terrorism – has not been confirmed.
“We are aware of an active security situation in Bondi. We urge people in the vicinity to follow information from NSW Police,” a spokesperson for the prime minister said.
Emergency services near Bondi Beach. Pic: Sky News Australia
An event marking the Jewish festival of Hanukkah is believed to have been going on nearby. It is not clear if this is linked to the attack.
One of the world’s most famous beaches, Bondi is typically crowded with locals and tourists, especially on warm weekend evenings. It is currently summer in Australia.
Sky News correspondent Nicole Johnston, in Sydney, said she has seen some of the graphic video that is now circulating on social media.
“It is graphic and it is shocking. You can see two men, active shooters, firing from a pedestrian bridge right at Bondi Beach,” she tells Sky News.
“There’s also video of injured people on the ground. They’re receiving medical treatment. There is blood on the ground. So clearly that have been sort of at least a number of injured people there.”
Sky News has not yet been unable to verify video circulating on social media.
New South Wales police also warned people against sharing unconfirmed rumours, asking people to follow for official updates.
This story originally appeared on Skynews
