A chilling new video has surfaced, shedding more light on the tragic events at Sydney's Bondi Junction Westfield on April 13. This footage, captured by a second bystander, provides a critical perspective on the moments leading up to the fatal shooting of Reuven Morrison, a 27-year-old security guard.
Second Bystander's Video Captures Critical Moments
The video, filmed by Alen Moradian, shows the attacker, 40-year-old Joel Cauchi, walking through the shopping centre. Moradian can be heard warning others, "He's got a knife, he's got a knife," as he records. The footage captures Cauchi approaching Morrison, who was bravely trying to protect the public. The confrontation escalates rapidly, culminating in the sound of gunshots. This video is distinct from the widely circulated footage shot by Didier Cohen and forms a vital piece of the evidence puzzle for New South Wales Police.
Moradian, who was shopping with his wife, described the scene as pure chaos. He stated that his instinct was to document the incident, believing it was important to capture what was happening. His video has been handed over to the authorities and is being analyzed as part of the comprehensive investigation into the attack that claimed six lives and injured several others.
The Heroic Act of Reuven Morrison
At the centre of this new footage is Reuven Morrison, a young security guard who was on duty that fateful Saturday. Eyewitness accounts and videos confirm that Morrison confronted Cauchi in an attempt to stop his rampage. Tragically, he was shot during this intervention and later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital. Morrison has been widely hailed as a hero for his selfless actions, which likely prevented further casualties.
The 27-year-old was a beloved member of his community, and his death has sent waves of grief across Sydney and beyond. A fundraising page set up for his family described him as "a kind and gentle soul" who paid the ultimate price while protecting others. The police investigation continues to piece together the final moments of his life, with the new video offering crucial context.
Investigation and Community Response
The New South Wales Police are conducting a thorough investigation, which includes examining all available video evidence, witness statements, and the background of the perpetrator, Joel Cauchi. Authorities have indicated that Cauchi targeted women during his attack, and the incident is not being treated as terrorism-related. The focus remains on understanding his motives and the sequence of events.
The Bondi Junction community and the wider Australian public are still reeling from the shock of the attack. Vigils have been held to honour the victims, including Morrison. The emergence of the second video underscores the traumatic impact of the event on bystanders, many of whom are now cooperating with police while dealing with the psychological aftermath of witnessing such violence.
This incident has also sparked renewed discussions about public safety, the role of security personnel, and the bravery of ordinary citizens in the face of extreme danger. As the legal and investigative processes move forward, the heroism of Reuven Morrison and the value of bystander evidence remain at the forefront of this heartbreaking story.
