A senior terrorism expert from the police is set to provide insights into the tragic stabbing incident that occurred at Bondi Junction, which left six people dead and ten injured during a chaotic three-minute attack on April 13 last year.
The assailant, Joel Cauchi, wielded a 30cm knife and targeted shoppers in the densely populated shopping centre in eastern Sydney. Among the fatalities were Dawn Singleton (25), Faraz Tahir (30), Ashlee Good (38), Jade Young (47), Pikria Darchia (55), and Yixuan Cheng (27). The rampage, which took place on a busy Saturday afternoon, also involved a nine-month-old baby among the injured.
Cauchi was eventually shot dead by police Inspector Amy Scott, who is credited with preventing further casualties. An inquest is taking place to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack. Initially, authorities feared the incident could be linked to a terrorist motive; however, investigators found no evidence supporting extremist beliefs associated with Cauchi. Nonetheless, counsel assisting the coroner, Peggy Dwyer, SC, revealed that Cauchi had a concerning internet history marked by searches related to weapons, violence, and mass killings, including references to the infamous Columbine High School shooting.
Cauchi had a history of mental health issues, having been diagnosed with schizophrenia during his teenage years. He was reportedly stable on medication until 2019, when he ceased his treatment. Leading a transient lifestyle away from his family in Queensland, he had been homeless at the time of the attack.
Further testimonies are expected from a specialised paramedic who handled the chaotic scene, as well as from the manager of the NSW Police Terrorism Protection Unit. The coroner will also address matters regarding the effectiveness of communication between agencies and the response of emergency services during this mass casualty event.
For those affected or in need of support, resources are available through Lifeline (13 11 14), Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636), the Suicide Callback Service (1300 659 467), and MensLine Australia (1300 78 99 78).