In a shocking incident at the Westfield Shopping Centre in Bondi Junction, Australia, a 40-year-old man suffering from mental health issues went on a stabbing spree, resulting in the tragic death of six people and leaving over a dozen others injured. The suspect, identified as Joel Cauchi, killed five women and one man during the attack, according to New South Wales police.

The horrific incident took place on Saturday, with Cauchi injuring at least twelve individuals, including a 9-month-old baby whose mother tragically lost her life while trying to protect her child. Authorities have confirmed that Cauchi had a history of mental illness and are not treating the attack as terrorism-related.

Cauchi's family, in a written statement obtained by the Associated Press, revealed that their son had been battling mental health issues since his teenage years. Although the specifics of his mental health condition were not made immediately clear, it was reported by the Sydney Morning Herald that he was struggling with schizophrenia. Police also suspect that his condition worsened over the past five years due to drug usage, including methamphetamine and psychedelics.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised the heroic actions of Inspector Amy Scott, the responding officer who bravely confronted Cauchi. Albanese commended Scott for her swift response, stating that her actions had saved many more lives. The officer, who courageously faced the danger head-on, has been identified as a "wonderful inspector" by the Prime Minister.

Cauchi's family, in their statement, condemned his actions and expressed no objections to the officer fatally shooting him in order to protect others. They described Joel's actions as "truly horrific" and expressed their own bewilderment over the tragedy.

As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the incident, the community mourns the loss of innocent lives and prays for the swift recovery of those injured. The authorities have assured the public that they are taking the necessary measures to ensure such a tragedy does not happen again.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.