Melbourne: At least one person was killed and several others were left wounded on Friday in Melbourne, Australia, after reports of multiple stabbing ‘incident’, according to Australian police. However, the police has clearly refuted any links of terrorism with the incident.
The incident took place at Bourke Street as reported by Victoria Police. According to them, the police initially responded to a report of a car on fire near the corner of Swanston Street about 4.20 pm (10.50 am IST). But after reaching the spot they witnessed that several people were stabbed and critically injured.
Later, a man was arrested after he was shot at the scene and taken to a hospital under police guard in a critical condition.
Addressing the media, Superintendent David Clayton said that the man who attacked the people was shot in the chest and he is currently critically injured. He also asked people to come forward if they have any information on the incident.
We’re live with Superintendent David Clayton following an incident on Bourke St in the CBD this afternoon. https://t.co/OkzIPBVb3m
— Victoria Police (@VictoriaPolice) November 9, 2018
In multiple videos that surfaced, a man can be seen trying to stab two policemen who try to make several attempts to wrest the knife from the man. One of the cops then shoots him. Meanwhile, a car can be seen blazing on the side of the pavement at the scene.
However, the exact reason for the stabbing and burning of the car has not been ascertained as of yet.
The area has been cordoned off and people have been asked to avoid the area.
The Victoria Police took to Twitter to update on the situation. “Police are currently at an incident on Bourke St in the CBD. Police initially responded to a report of a car on fire near the corner of Swanston Street about 4.20pm. A man was arrested at the scene and has been taken to hospital under police guard in a critical condition. Police are not looking for anyone further at this early stage. A small number of people are being treated for stab wounds. The exact circumstances are yet to be determined at this stage. The area has been cordoned off and the public are urged to avoid the area.”
“Anyone with information or who witnessed the incident is asked to go to Melbourne West Police Station to make a statement. We will provide further information when it comes to hand,” they added.
