Hundreds gather in Sydney to mourn victims of Bondi Beach mall attack one week on

Australian prime minister Antony Albanese addressed crowd at beach
People hold candles during the Community Candlelight Vigil, recognising the victims of a fatal stabbing attack at Bondi Junction Westfield shopping centre
REUTERS
William Mata21 April 2024

Hundreds gathered on Sydney's Bondi Beach on Sunday evening, lighting candles as the sun set, to mourn the six people killed in the shopping centre knife attack last Saturday. 

Joel Cauchi, a 40-year-old who had suffered with mental health issues, killed five women and a male security guard in the mall on April 13 before being shot dead by police.

A choir sang hymns and Australian prime minister Antony Albanese addressed the crowd.

He said: “We think of everyone still trying to come to terms with the hole in their life where a loved one should be. 

“To the families and friends who are here with us, and to all who are with us in spirit, please know this - that every Australian is thinking of you.”

A woman hugs a police officer during the Community Candlelight Vigil
REUTERS

After his speech, the crowd took part in a minute's silence.

Several others were injured in the attack, including a nine month old baby. The youngster’s mother was confirmed as one of those to have been killed

"I think the atmosphere was quite calming, just relaxing and understanding," said Mona Lemoto, who was at the event.

"I think there was a lot of connection and really respecting families and communities."

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Waverley Council Mayor Paula Mussels attend the Community Candlelight Vigil
REUTERS

Local media said Amy Scott, the police officer who shot dead the attacker, attended along with politicians and civic leaders.

Sydney is generally one of the world's safest cities and has strict anti-gun and knife laws.

Just two days after the mall attack, an assailant stabbed and wounded an Assyrian bishop in the west of the city.

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