MT DRUITT, NSW — A frightening incident unfolded in Mt Druitt earlier today as the area was placed on lockdown following reports of an active shooter and at least one shot fired. The situation prompted a large-scale police response, creating chaos and concern among residents and businesses in the western Sydney suburb.
Authorities responded quickly just after midday when multiple calls were made to emergency services reporting the sound of gunfire near a commercial area close to the Mt Druitt train station. Witnesses described scenes of panic as people ran for cover and police swarmed the vicinity.
“We heard a loud bang, like a gunshot, and people just started screaming and running,” said one witness, who was shopping nearby at the time. “Within minutes, police were everywhere, telling us to stay inside and lock the doors.”
New South Wales Police confirmed that at least one shot had been discharged but said that, as of Thursday evening, there were no reports of injuries or fatalities. Law enforcement quickly moved to cordon off several blocks around the incident and urged the public to avoid the area while tactical officers and detectives assessed the situation.
Businesses in the area were advised to remain closed for the duration of the police operation. Local schools were also affected, with some placed on temporary lockdown as a precaution. Concerned parents rushed to gather more information, though authorities assured the public that the lockdowns were purely preventative.
A police spokesperson issued a statement in the early afternoon: “At this stage, one shot has been confirmed, and we are treating the situation as an active police operation. We urge the public to stay away from the affected area while we carry out our investigation.”
Police have not released details about a suspect or suspects but confirmed that a person of interest was seen fleeing the scene shortly after the shot was fired. Officers are reviewing CCTV footage from surrounding businesses and interviewing witnesses. A police helicopter was also seen circling overhead as part of the search effort.
Community members expressed concern and frustration, with many saying violence of this nature is deeply unsettling in what is usually a bustling but peaceful suburb. “It’s terrifying,” said a local shop owner. “This isn’t something you expect to happen on an ordinary weekday.”
Transport in the area was also disrupted, with train service in and out of Mt Druitt station temporarily suspended while police conducted their operation. Buses were rerouted, and traffic was diverted away from the lockdown zone.
By mid-afternoon, the immediate threat appeared to have passed, though police maintained a strong presence in the area and continued their investigation. Officers went door to door asking for information, and forensic units arrived to process the scene.
As of the latest update, no arrests have been made, and police continue to search for the person responsible for firing the weapon. Authorities have asked anyone with information, dashcam footage, or mobile phone recordings from the area around the time of the incident to come forward.
Residents are encouraged to remain alert and report any suspicious activity to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.
