Masked Gunman Spotted Carrying Rifle on Busy Quinns Rocks Coast Track
Morning walkers in Perth's northern suburbs were left shocked and rattled after a confronting encounter with a masked gunman near a popular beach. The incident occurred along Ocean Drive in Quinns Rocks, where a member of the public reported the sighting to triple-0 just before 5am on Monday morning.
Eyewitness Account of the Armed Individual
Quinns Rocks resident Peter described the alarming scene, noting he was meeting a friend when they both observed the armed man. "My friend was up in front of me and I caught up with him and he said to me, 'Did you see what I saw just now? There's a chap walking past me with a gun,' and I said, 'That's right, I saw it too,'" Peter told The West Australian.
The gunman was dressed entirely in black clothing, including a black balaclava that concealed his face, making him nearly invisible in the pitch-black morning darkness. Peter noted that the individual was carrying what appeared to be a long rifle, partially hidden under a jacket or cardigan, and was walking quickly in a northerly direction along the footpath.
Rapid Police Response to the Emergency Call
Upon spotting the gunman, Peter's friend immediately phoned triple-0. "They responded extremely quick, within minutes they were there," Peter said, describing how two police cars arrived at the scene with emergency lights and sirens activated. Officers were seen conducting patrols of the area and speaking with other walkers to gather more information.
Despite the swift action, a WA Police spokesperson stated they had no information on the specific job officers attended or whether the male was apprehended. The lack of details has left the community on edge, with residents expressing concern over the unusual and threatening presence in a typically peaceful coastal area.
Community Impact and Ongoing Concerns
The incident has sparked widespread alarm among local residents, who frequent the busy coast track for morning walks and leisure activities. The sighting of a masked individual with a firearm in such a public space has raised questions about safety and police visibility in the region.
As investigations continue, authorities urge anyone with additional information to come forward. The community remains vigilant, hoping for clarity and reassurance in the wake of this disturbing event.
