A 60-year-old man accused of unleashing dozens of gunshots across Sydney’s inner west has been charged with 25 serious offences, including 18 counts of attempted murder.
Croydon Park went into lockdown about 7:45pm on Sunday after reports of an active shooter on Georges River Road. Over nearly two hours, police exchanged gunfire with the alleged offender, Artemios Mintzas, in what officers described as a “highly dangerous operation.”
Mintzas allegedly fired up to 50 rounds “indiscriminately” from his flat window, hitting 13 vehicles and a bus shelter. Sixteen people were treated at the scene, and two men were taken to hospital. Tactical officers stormed the flat around 9:30pm, arresting Mintzas and seizing a .30-calibre rifle and ammunition.
Mintzas, who is believed to be employed by Sydney Trains, was taken to hospital for minor eye injuries before being transferred to Burwood Police Station. He was formally charged late on Monday and denied bail ahead of his appearance at Burwood Local Court on Tuesday, 7 October.
Authorities have ruled out any links to terrorism or organised crime. Acting Superintendent Stephen Parry said Mintzas had “very few recorded interactions [with police] over the last 20 years” and no known history of mental illness. The investigation, under Strike Force Cornwood, remains ongoing.
Source: ABC News
