Steven Lin, 41, Dies After Police Shooting Following Potts Point Stand-Off
Steven Lin, a 41-year-old dentist and author, died on Tuesday morning after being shot by police during a stand-off in Potts Point, Sydney. The incident followed allegations that Lin attacked two women in a unit block on St Neot Avenue. A critical incident investigation has been launched to examine the circumstances surrounding the police shooting.
Incident Unfolds in Potts Point
Police responded to a unit block on St Neot Avenue in Potts Point following reports of alleged assaults. Authorities allege Steven Lin entered the building, armed with a knife, and subsequently attacked two women. One woman was allegedly assaulted in a laundry room, and another inside her unit. Police indicate that the attacks were random, and the victims did not know Lin.
Witnesses reported hearing calls for "help" before police arrived. Upon confrontation by two officers, Lin allegedly lunged at or threatened them with a knife.
Officers deployed a Taser, which was reported as ineffective. Police then fired a single shot, fatally wounding Lin. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The incident is believed to have spanned approximately 10 minutes, during which Lin was reportedly barricaded inside one of the apartments.
Victims Hospitalized with Serious Injuries
The two women, aged 48 and 56, sustained serious injuries to their heads and faces. One woman suffered injuries consistent with a stabbing, while the other sustained blunt force trauma. Both women were transported to St Vincent's Hospital in stable condition. One of the women has since been discharged, while the other remains in stable condition.
Dentist and Author with Troubled Recent Past
Steven Lin was identified as a dentist and author, known for authoring "The Dental Diet" and other books, and maintaining a significant social media following for health advice. He was the founder and former CEO of the Central Coast-based dentistry clinic Helix Group and owned two dental practices in NSW's Central Coast. Lin was a father of six children.
His family informed ABC that Lin began using methamphetamine after a separation from his wife in 2024 and ceased his affiliation with Helix Group in the same year.
Lin was facing multiple domestic violence-related charges, including assault occasioning bodily harm, breaching an apprehended violence order (AVO), stalking, intimidating with intent to cause fear, and choking. He was scheduled to appear in court in March for two AVO breach offenses.
Critical Incident Investigation Launched
A critical incident investigation has been initiated by authorities to examine the actions of the officers involved in the shooting.
NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Peter McKenna described the situation encountered by officers as "very violent."