Craigieburn Central Locked Down After Machete Confrontation, Gunshots Reported

Craigieburn Central shopping centre in Melbourne’s north was placed into lockdown on Thursday, August 13, after reports of gunshots and two groups of males armed with machetes arguing at the venue around 7.10pm. Victoria Police attended but found no evidence of a shooting and no reported injuries. Both groups fled before officers arrived, and police are now investigating the incident and increasing visible patrols in the area.

What happened at the shopping centre

Police received a call at about 7.10pm on Thursday reporting that two groups of males were arguing and two gunshots had been fired at Craigieburn Central on Craigieburn Road in Melbourne’s north. Witnesses reported seeing masked males carrying machetes. One witness told ABC Radio that he was at the centre with his six-year-old son when he saw the groups run towards each other and heard a shot. Shoppers and staff were locked inside stores with security shutters lowered while police searched the area.

No evidence of shooting found

Despite initial reports of gunfire, Victoria Police said there was no evidence that a shooting had actually occurred and no reports of injuries connected to the incident. The groups fled before police arrived, and investigators are working to identify those involved and determine exactly what happened during the confrontation.

Police response and community safety measures

Victoria Police are continuing to investigate the incident and have urged anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Police will now have a visible presence and conduct patrols at Craigieburn Central for community reassurance. The incident comes as the Victorian government expands its Community Connectors Program and Operation Pulse, which involves protective services officers patrolling shopping centres across Melbourne. Further shopping centres will be announced in October.

Witness accounts and community concern

Witnesses described scenes of panic as shoppers attempted to move away from the confrontation. One man told ABC that people inside a food outlet moved to the floor as the situation unfolded. Hume City councillor Carly Moore described the incident as really frightening and called for protective services officers at council shopping centres, including Craigieburn. She said crime felt out of control in many parts of the state and urged consequences for actions and more resources for emergency services.

Final Thoughts

The Craigieburn Central incident highlights growing community concern about safety at shopping centres across Melbourne. While no shooting evidence was found, the incident prompted immediate police response and will lead to increased patrols and potential inclusion in expanded safety programs.

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