Family of mum who died trying to save her baby in Sydney shopping centre attack speaks out

The family of the mother who died trying to save her baby in the Sydney shopping centre attack say they are 'reeling from the terrible loss'.

Joel Cauchi, 40, from Queensland, Australia, has been identified by police as the man who killed six people and injured several others at the Westfield Bondi mall on Saturday (13 April) afternoon.

Cauchi was shot dead by a police officer during the attack in East Sydney.

In a statement released by Queensland Police, the Cauchi family said: “We are absolutely devastated by the traumatic events that occurred in Sydney yesterday.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the victims and those still undergoing treatment at this time.

Six people died from the knife attack. (DAVID GRAY/AFP via Getty Images)

“Joel’s actions were truly horrific, and we are still trying to comprehend what has happened.

“He has battled with mental health issues since he was a teenager.

“We are in contact with both the New South Wales Police Force and Queensland Police Service and have no issues with the police officer who shot our son as she was only doing her job to protect others, and we hope she is coping alright.”

Police also said they do not think the attack was motivated by terrorism.

Four women and a male security guard who worked at the mall died at the scene, and another woman, 38-year-old Ashlee Good, died in hospital after trying to protect her nine-month-old daughter.

Two brothers said they witnessed a man 'run up to the woman with the baby' before the mother then ran to them 'bleeding' and 'stabbed'.

The siblings took the mum and daughter to one side to call 'for help', reports 9News Sydney.

The baby was injured during the attack and has undergone surgery.

And Ashlee's family have since spoken out after the incident.

Ashlee died in hospital (Handout)

They said in a statement today (14 April): "[We are] reeling from the terrible loss of Ashlee, a beautiful mother, daughter, sister, partner, friend, all-round outstanding human and so much more.

"We appreciate the well-wishes and thoughts of members of the Australian public who have expressed an outpouring of love for Ashlee and our baby girl.

"We are so grateful for the expert care and attention of the medical team at Sydney Children’s Hospital.

"We would also like to thank the New South Wales Police for their kindness and diligence in this tragedy and emergency services for getting our baby the care she needed as quickly as possible.

"To the two men who held and cared for our baby when Ashlee could not - words cannot express our gratitude."

Health Minister Ryan Park told ABC News that the little girl remains 'in critical condition and is in the ICU'.

He said: "Now, we certainly are hoping that she gets through this but there is a long way to go."

If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677.