Key Takeaways
- A major police operation is underway in Sydney’s south-west after a shooting outside a shopping complex
- Eyewitnesses describe masked assailants firing several gunshots before making a swift escape
- No injuries have been reported, but a large police presence remains in the area
- The car park outside a shopping centre on Steer Road has been blocked off by police tape and emergency vehicles
- Detectives are interviewing witnesses and reviewing the scene to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting
Introduction to the Incident
A major police operation is currently underway in Sydney’s south-west after a shooting occurred outside a shopping complex in Gregory Hills. The incident took place on Friday morning, with eyewitnesses describing the terrifying moment a man ran for his life after masked assailants fired several gunshots before making a swift escape. Police were quick to respond to the scene, with a large presence still visible in the area. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported, but the situation remains serious, with a significant police operation ongoing.
Police Response and Investigation
Police swarmed the car park on Steer Road, Gregory Hills, after 8am on Friday, and a large presence remains in the area. The car park, which adjoins a shopping centre, has been blocked off by police tape and emergency vehicles. Detectives have been photographed interviewing one person outside an entry to World Gym, which is part of the exclusion zone marked by police. A black ute has blocked movement on the road leading out of the car park, while several traffic cones are placed in the restricted area. The police are taking a thorough approach to investigating the incident, with detectives reviewing the scene and interviewing witnesses to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Eyewitness Accounts
Eyewitnesses have come forward to describe the terrifying moment the shooting occurred. One witness, Lucas, told 2GB that he saw two people with balaclavas and armed with handguns enter the shopping complex and fire eight or nine gunshots. Lucas, who was putting out stock at his shop when the shooting occurred, said, "There seemed to be someone running but by the time I could get a description, I had already fled." Another witness, Jack, counted 10 shots of "rapid fire" from the Service NSW on Steer Road. Jack, who was inside the store with other customers and staff members, called 2GB from a secure room, saying, "We’ve just gone in the back room, doors aren’t locked, but we’re just waiting for everything to be cleared and the police to come, but it’s pretty scary."
Scene Description and Police Cordon
The scene outside the shopping complex has been described as chaotic, with police tape and emergency vehicles blocking off the car park. The police cordon has restricted access to the area, with a black ute blocking movement on the road leading out of the car park. Several traffic cones are also in place, marking the restricted area. The shopping centre, which includes a Service NSW and a World Gym, has been affected by the police operation, with customers and staff members being interviewed by detectives. The police are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting and to identify those responsible.
Ongoing Operation
The police operation is ongoing, with detectives continuing to investigate the scene and interview witnesses. The large police presence in the area is a reminder of the seriousness of the incident, and the police are urging anyone with information to come forward. The incident has caused concern among locals, and the police are working to reassure the community that they are doing everything they can to keep them safe. As the investigation continues, the police will provide updates on the progress of the case and any developments that may arise. For now, the community remains on high alert, and the police are working tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice.