Prince William and Princess Kate expressed their deep distress upon learning about the tragic stabbings in Sydney on Saturday.

The appalling incident unfolded at a Westfield shopping center in Bondi Junction, resulting in six fatalities and necessitating surgery for a nine-month-old baby. A 40-year-old man was fatally shot by law enforcement at the scene.

Following the ordeal, the Prince and Princess of Wales shared a joint message on their official social media channels that read: “We are shocked and saddened by the terrible events in Sydney earlier today. 

“Our thoughts are with those affected, including the loved ones of those lost and the heroic emergency responders who risked their own lives to save others. The message was signed off with their initials: “W & C”. 

According to the BBC, in addition to the aforementioned victims, eight individuals, including the baby, are currently receiving treatment in hospital for their injuries. Tragically, the infant’s mother succumbed to her injuries sustained in the attack.

This statement marks the first public appearance of Princess Kate following the shocking news of her cancer diagnosis in March. The 42-year-old Princess delivered a heartfelt video message, revealing her ongoing preventive cancer treatment following abdominal surgery in January.

In the emotional address, she appealed for privacy during her recovery, particularly for the well-being of her three children: Prince George, aged 10, Princess Charlotte, aged eight, and Prince Louis, aged four, who are currently at home for the Easter holidays.

Since Kate’s revelation about her health, Prince William has been seen twice during the Easter break. The first sighting reportedly included an outing with his mother-in-law, Carole Middleton, who is believed to be staying with her daughter and family for Easter. The second occasion was on Thursday night when he attended a football match with his son, Prince George, to watch Aston Villa play.

Shortly after William and Kate released their statement, King Charles and Queen Camilla also issued a message in response to the tragic events.

The message, which was also, shared to their official social media channels, read: “My wife and I were utterly shocked and horrified to hear of the tragic stabbing incident in Bondi. 

Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of those who have been so brutally killed during such a senseless attack. 

While details of these shocking circumstances are still emerging, our thoughts are also with those who were involved in the response, and we give thanks for the bravery of the first responders and emergency services.”