Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Knife Attack in Sydney Ends with Police Shooting

3/6/2026

23 3 Full Breakdown

Center

Police Confront Knife Attacker

On March 3, 2026, in Potts Point, Sydney, a man armed with a knife attacked two women, causing serious injuries.
Police responded around 10:50 AM and confronted the attacker, marking the second police shooting in New South Wales on the same day.
Officers shot the attacker when he lunged at them.
One woman remains in stable condition awaiting surgery for a broken nose.

Left

Police Reform Response

The coroner's inquest found that Steve Pampalian was not known to police.
This contradicted earlier claims by an assistant commissioner.
Pampalian, 41, was shot by a NSW police officer in May 2023 after a psychotic episode.
The police have since implemented changes, including enhanced mental health training and automatic activation of body cameras during critical incidents.
Pampalian's family expressed their grief over his loss.

1 of 2

Police Confront Knife Attacker

On March 3, 2026, in Potts Point, Sydney, a man armed with a knife attacked two women, causing serious injuries.
Police responded around 10:50 AM and confronted the attacker, marking the second police shooting in New South Wales on the same day.
Officers shot the attacker when he lunged at them.
One woman remains in stable condition awaiting surgery for a broken nose.

1 / 2