A quiet afternoon at a popular Cairns shopping centre turned into a scene of terror when a man armed with what appeared to be a firearm began hunting teenagers in a brazen daylight attack that has left the community reeling.
The shocking incident unfolded at Earlville Shopping Centre around 3:30 PM on Tuesday, sending shoppers scrambling for safety as the suspect targeted multiple young people while brandishing the imitation weapon.
Chaos and Confusion
Witnesses described moments of pure panic as the man, described as being in his late teens to early twenties, moved through the shopping complex with what looked like a real firearm. The suspect allegedly approached several teenagers while making threats and pointing the replica gun at them.
"It was absolutely terrifying," one shaken shopper reported. "People were running, not knowing if they were in real danger or what was happening. You never expect this in your local shopping centre."
Police Response and Investigation
Queensland Police were called to the scene immediately, with multiple units responding to what was initially treated as an active armed offender situation. Officers quickly established that the weapon was a replica, but the psychological impact on witnesses and victims remained very real.
Detectives have launched a full investigation and are urging anyone with information to come forward. "This type of behaviour is completely unacceptable and will be treated with the utmost seriousness," a police spokesperson stated.
Community Impact and Safety Concerns
The incident has raised serious concerns about public safety in what many consider to be safe community spaces. Shopping centre management has reassured patrons that security measures are being reviewed and enhanced in response to the terrifying event.
Local parents and residents have expressed their shock and concern, with many questioning how such a brazen attack could occur in broad daylight at a busy retail location.
Police are continuing their search for the suspect and have appealed to the public for any information that could lead to his identification and arrest.
