Steven Lin, Former Dentist and Author, Fatally Shot by Police in Potts Point
The incident occurred on Tuesday morning in Potts Point, Sydney, after Steven Lin, 41, allegedly attacked two women. The confrontation with officers that followed led to the deployment of a taser before a single shot was fired, fatally striking Lin.
Police allege Steven Lin unlawfully entered an apartment building armed with a knife, attacked two women, and then confronted officers, resulting in his fatal shooting.
The Incident Unfolds
The Alleged AttacksPolice allege that Steven Lin unlawfully entered an apartment building on St Neot Avenue, Potts Point, armed with a knife. He was reportedly observed searching residents' laundry before the alleged assaults.
Lin allegedly attacked Christine Campeau, 56, a wellness therapist, in the communal laundry room. He then reportedly attacked Chloe Paul, 57, inside her unit. Police believe the attacks were random, and the victims did not know Lin. Witnesses reported hearing calls for "help" during the incident.
Confrontation and Fatal ShootingFollowing the alleged attacks, Lin exited a window and approached police officers while reportedly still armed with a knife. Officers at the scene deployed a taser, which was described as ineffective. Police then fired a single round, fatally striking Lin, who was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The entire incident is reported to have lasted approximately 10 minutes, during which Lin was believed to have barricaded himself inside one of the apartments.
Victims' Condition
Both women sustained serious injuries. Christine Campeau suffered serious facial injuries, including a broken nose. Chloe Paul also sustained extensive facial injuries. One woman's injuries were consistent with a stabbing, while the other suffered blunt force trauma. Both women received wounds to their heads and faces.
They 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.
Background of Steven Lin
Steven Lin was known as a dentist and author, having written "The Dental Diet" and founded the Central Coast-based dentistry clinic Helix Group. He had six children.
According to his family, Lin began using methamphetamine following a separation from his wife in 2024, the same year he ceased his affiliation with Helix Group.
Lin was reportedly 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.
Ongoing Investigation
A critical incident investigation has been launched to examine the actions of the officers involved in the shooting. This investigation will be overseen by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission.
NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Peter McKenna stated that his officers encountered a "very violent" situation. Detectives are also investigating Lin's movements in the hours leading up to the incident to ascertain his motives and state of mind.