Video courtesy of Filipinos in Australia.
Media conference following an incident on Melbourne CBD 21 December 2017
A white SUV ploughed through several pedestrians along Flinders Street resulting in 19 people being injured and taken to the hospital including four in critical condition.
Police arrested two men, including a 32-year-old Australian citizen of Afghan descent which the police say deliberately crashed into pedestrians.
Acting Chief Commissioner Shane Patton said the man was arrested by an off-duty police officer.
But he said there was no evidence to indicate there was a connection with terrorism.
“We don’t at this time have any evidence or any intelligence to indicate there’s a connection with terrorism,” he said.
A second man, 24, was seen filming the incident and was found to be carrying a bag with knives in it.
He was also arrested, but police believe he had no links to the incident.
Statement from the Premier
This was a statement released by Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews:
“What happened in Flinders Street today was an act of evil.
“This was an attack on innocent bystanders – people finishing their Christmas shopping, heading home from work, unwinding for the year.
“They did not deserve this. Our city did not deserve this.
“Christmas should be a time of celebration, spent with loved ones.
“Instead, for many Victorian families, it will now be a permanent reminder of the day their lives changed forever.
“To the victims and their families, we extend our support and our love.
“And to those heroes – our first responders, and those who rushed to the aid of others – we extend our deepest thanks.
“Anyone affected can contact the Victims Support Helpline on 1800 819 817.
“Tonight, Victorians stand strong, and we stand together.”
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