Australian actor Hugh Jackman has paid tribute to the victims of the mass stabbing attack at Westfield Bondi Junction, and has also praised the “remarkable” first responders, including members of the public.
The Hollywood star, who when in Sydney lives in North Bondi, shared his heartbreak over the tragedy in which Joel Cauchi, 40, stabbed six people to death and seriously wounded 12 others including a nine-month-old baby.
Cauchi was then shot dead by NSW Police Inspector Amy Scott.
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After news of the incident broke worldwide on Sunday morning, Jackman, who is currently living in New York, shared a message on his Instagram stories.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims who lost their lives in the Bondi Junction attack,” Jackman wrote.
“To the first responders and members of the community… your extraordinary acts of bravery are truly remarkable.
“With love and gratitude, Hugh.”
When in Australia, Jackman is often seen around Bondi and lives in a penthouse in North Bondi.
Cauchi was fatally shot by police Inspector Scott at the Bondi Junction Westfield after he stabbed six people and injured 12 others.
He is understood to have been diagnosed with schizophrenia and had undergone treatment for mental health issues over many years.
Scott is being praised for her “enormous courage and bravery”.