A Melbourne shopping centre got sent into lockdown earlier today, with shoppers and staff being evacuated due to an alleged gang knife fight involving ten people. The incident took place at Northland Shopping Centre in Preston around 2:30 pm, resulting in the arrest of a 15-year-old boy and another man by Victoria Police. Ambulance Victoria also reported that a teenager was rushed to the hospital with serious injuries following the altercation.
Chaos ensued as footage circulated online, showing a male brandishing a large blade while confronting two others inside Northland. Police described the situation as “frightening” for shoppers, with some seen fleeing the scene while carrying young children and pushing prams. Witness reports painted a terrifying picture, with one mother describing the scene as “terrifying” and another shopper labeling it as “hectic” and “crazy.” According to one witness, everyone was running for their lives as the situation unfolded.
Superintendent Kelly Lawson revealed that two rival gangs had arranged to meet at the shopping centre during a busy time for families. She condemned the behavior as disgraceful and frightening for the public. Police responded swiftly to the emergency calls, arriving at the chaotic scene within six minutes. The shopping centre was evacuated as police, including special operations group and tactical response team officers, worked to contain the situation. Despite the mayhem, Lawson assured shoppers of their safety and announced plans for increased patrols in the area. The incident highlighted the ongoing issue of youth gangs in Victoria, with investigations ongoing into the involvement of the other eight youths in the altercation.