Alleged Gunman Identified as Father, 60, with No Mental Health Record: 50 Shots Fired at Random Targets in Sydney’s Inner West
- A father with no history of mental health issues has been identified as the alleged gunman behind a shooting in Sydney’s inner west.
- About 50 shots were fired at passing vehicles, including a police car, from his Georges River Rd premises in Croydon Park.
- Two people were hospitalised, with one undergoing surgery, and 16 others were treated at the scene.
In a shocking turn of events, 60-year-old Artemios Mintzas has been arrested and charged in connection with a brazen shooting spree in Sydney’s inner west that left multiple people injured and others shaken.
According to Acting Superintendent Stephen Parry, Mintzas, a father with no documented mental health issues, fired approximately 50 shots at passing vehicles, including a police car, from his Georges River Rd premises in Croydon Park around 7:45 pm on Sunday.
In a stunning admission, Parry revealed that Mintzas has several children and only a few recorded interactions with police over the past 20 years, with no links to organised crime or terrorism.
“No links at all to any organised crime or any terror,” Parry said, adding that the alleged shooter’s motive remained unclear.
The alleged gunman’s actions have left the community reeling, with police seizing a .30 calibre rifle at the scene. One shot was fired through the window of a police car, which could have caused fatal injuries to police officers if it was occupied.
Fortunately, no officers were injured, but the attack has sparked widespread concern and outrage. NSW Premier Chris Minns praised the “incredible bravery” of first responders, saying they “responded without hesitation to protect the community.”
“I saw firsthand the composure, professionalism and courage of the officers who responded to this life-threatening incident,” Minns said on Monday. “Their actions under pressure reflect the very best of the NSW Police Force who put themselves in harm’s way every single day to keep us all safe.”
As the investigation continues, the community remains on high alert, with many left to wonder how such a senseless act of violence could occur in their own backyard.