Sydney Gunman Fires 50-100 Bullets in Random Shooting Spree

Chaos in Sydney's Inner West as Gunman Opens Fire on Random Targets

A 60-year-old man has been arrested after allegedly firing between 50-100 bullets indiscriminately at passers-by, vehicles, and police in Sydney's Croydon Park suburb on Sunday evening, October 5, 2025. The shooting spree lasted approximately two hours and left one man critically injured with gunshot wounds to his neck and chest, while at least 16 others suffered minor injuries from shattered glass and shrapnel.

Two-Hour Shooting Ordeal

The incident began around 7:45 PM local time when the alleged gunman started firing from the window of his first-floor unit above a business on Georges River Road. According to police reports, the man fired randomly at passing cars, pedestrians, and responding officers in what authorities described as a "serious and terrifying" mass shooting event.

Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon stated during a press conference: "This was a highly dangerous operation where the alleged offender was firing indiscriminately at anyone and anything in his line of sight. We're fortunate the outcome wasn't more serious given the number of rounds fired."

Critical Injuries and Mass Casualties

The most seriously injured victim, a man in his 50s, was shot while sitting in a moving vehicle. He was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition and underwent emergency surgery for gunshot wounds to his neck and chest. Hospital officials confirmed his injuries were serious but not life-threatening.

At least 16 other people received treatment for minor injuries, primarily from shattered glass when their vehicle windows were struck by bullets. Emergency services treated victims at the scene for cuts and abrasions caused by flying glass fragments.

Police Response and Arrest

Tactical police officers responded to the scene and engaged in an exchange of gunfire with the suspect before arresting him around 9:30 PM. The alleged gunman sustained minor eye injuries during his apprehension and was transported to hospital for treatment before being taken into custody.

Police seized a 30-caliber rifle from the scene and confirmed the discovery of multiple firearms in the suspect's apartment. Authorities emphasized that the suspect had no known criminal history, no connections to organized crime or terrorism, and very few prior interactions with law enforcement.

Australia's Strict Gun Laws in Focus

The incident has brought Australia's strict firearm regulations back into the spotlight. Following the 1996 Port Arthur massacre that claimed 35 lives, Australia implemented comprehensive gun control measures through the National Firearms Agreement. These reforms banned automatic and semi-automatic weapons, established a national gun registry, and created a firearm buyback program.

As reported by ABC News, mass shootings remain relatively rare in Australia due to these strict controls. A witness to Sunday's events described the scene as "something out of a movie," with shattered car windows and bus stop glass littering the streets.

Ongoing Investigation

Police continue to investigate the motive behind the shooting, which remains unclear. Detectives are examining the suspect's background and mental state, though initial reports indicate no history of psychological problems or substance abuse involvement.

The multicultural suburb of Croydon Park was placed in lockdown during the incident, with residents advised to shelter in place while police secured the area. The investigation continues as authorities work to understand what prompted the random violence that shocked the peaceful community.