Westfield to Review Security Measures Following Fatal Stabbing Rampage in Bondi
The Scentre Group, owners of Westfield, have stated that they will be reviewing security arrangements at their destinations as part of their cooperation with the coronial inquiry.
Westfield owner Scentre has announced that they will be examining their security arrangements at their shopping centers as authorities investigate the fatal stabbing of six individuals at their Bondi center over the weekend.
Scentre CEO Elliott Rusanow emphasized that Scentre is actively assisting the police investigation.
“We will fully participate in the process, including discussions regarding security arrangements and practices at our destinations,” he stated.
He also mentioned that they are collaborating with various community members and stakeholders to prepare for the reopening of their Bondi shopping center, which has been closed since the tragic events on Saturday.
“Last night, the police returned Westfield Bondi to us, and we have commenced the preparations for reopening. A specific date for reopening has not been determined yet, but we anticipate it will be later this week,” Mr. Rusanow added.
“Our center serves as an essential social hub. We are carefully considering how to reopen to the community in a manner that is cautious and respectful.”
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Following the unveiling of an independent coronial inquiry by the New South Wales (NSW) government, Scentre expressed their support for the initiative.
Premier Chris Minns disclosed the investigation, allocating a budget of $18 million (US$11.6 million) to the coroner’s office promptly and ensuring that the inquest will receive substantial staff and resources.
“Simultaneously, an assistant deputy state coroner will oversee all forensic examinations during the course of the public inquiry,” Mr. Minns added.
However, the government has dismissed the idea of permitting security guards to carry stun guns or firearms.
“We do not believe that introducing more firearms into the community would be a wise decision,” he explained. “Nevertheless, we are evaluating the current limitations concerning equipment for security guards and the required training should there be a policy change.
“We are ensuring they have the necessary resources. While I am not announcing an immediate policy modification, we are reassessing the existing restrictions, except for firearms.”
Scentre also welcomed the announcement of the coronial investigation.
Attacker Googled ‘How to Kill’
Meanwhile, police have disclosed that the assaulter at Bondi Junction, Joel Cauchi, had been spotted at various shopping centers and had searched “how to kill” on Google before the assault on Saturday afternoon.
Reports suggesting his presence at shopping centers in Parramatta and Penrith prior to the incident will be investigated, stated NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb.
The investigation is delving into his activities in the days and weeks leading up to the attack, even scrutinizing his upbringing for a deeper insight into his mindset, she mentioned.
During a search of a storage unit utilized by the attacker, authorities found personal items like knives, notes, and drawings.
“I have made it clear that we may not attain definitive answers, but we will gain a comprehensive understanding of his movements and activities,” she explained.
Following the critical injury of a nine-month-old baby girl during the event, there has been a positive development in her condition. Ashlee Good’s baby was initially hospitalized in critical condition, but NSW Health Minister Ryan Park indicated an improvement.
“We are pleased to observe that the nine-month-old baby at the children’s hospital in Randwick has been downgraded from critical to serious condition,” Mr. Park informed the ABC. “We anticipate she will be transferred to a general ward in the next few days.”
