Nineteen people have been injured with four of them in a critical condition after a Suzuki SUV drove into a crowd of pedestrians in Melbourne on thursday afternoon.
The alleged driver who is a 32-year-old Australian citizen of Afghan descent was arrested by an off-duty police officer.
Acting Chief Commissioner Shane Patton says the driver is known to police and has been taken to hospital under police guard.
A 24-year-old man was also arrested for filming the incident.
Police also found three knives in his possession however they believe this male is not linked to the attack and is assisting police with enquiries.
"We've seen an horrific act, an evil act, an act of cowardice perpetrated against innocent bystanders,” were words used from Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews to describe the attack.
At a press conference, police say the driver has “historical assault matters” and a history of drug use and mental health issues. Police say he is not currently on bail.
At this stage police say there is no evidence or intelligence this incident is liked to terrorism, however, police believe this was a deliberate act.
Police are still in the early stages of their investigation and working with counter-terrorism command to ensure there is no connection.
Patton says there is no increased threat leading up to the festive season and other events in the city.
Earlier today, Commander Russell Barret told media the motive for the driver’s actions is unclear.
“People may have items and vehicles at the crime scene. At this stage, they will not be able to be retrieved until the crime scene is reopened,” says Commander Barret.
Victoria Police will continue to provide a strong police presence in the Melbourne CBD tonight.
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