A violent Sydney dentist attack has left a celebrity dental nutritionist dead after he allegedly broke into a woman’s home and assaulted her before police shot him during a confrontation.
The incident unfolded on Tuesday in Potts Point, an inner-city suburb of Sydney, when photographer Chloe Paul was working from home inside her apartment. Police say Dr Steven Lin forced his way into the property and demanded money before launching a violent assault.
Sydney Dentist Attack Inside Potts Point Apartment
During the Sydney dentist attack, the intruder allegedly pinned Ms Paul to the ground and began beating her. According to family members, the mother of three managed to fight back thanks to her background in boxing.
After resisting the attacker, Ms Paul was able to call police. Officers arrived quickly at the apartment building and confronted the suspect inside the premises.
Authorities said the situation escalated when Dr Lin allegedly lunged toward officers with a knife.
Police Taser Failed Before Fatal Shot
Police first deployed a Taser in an attempt to subdue the suspect during the Sydney dentist attack. However, officers said the device proved ineffective.
According to the police statement, officers then fired a single round when the suspect continued advancing with the weapon. Dr Lin died at the scene.
Investigators believe the dentist may have been under the influence of drugs during the incident.
Victim Suffers Injuries During Assault
Ms Paul suffered serious injuries during the attack and later underwent surgery for a broken nose on Wednesday.
Police also confirmed that another resident in the building was assaulted earlier by the same suspect. The neighbour was reportedly attacked in the shared laundry room of the apartment complex before the home invasion occurred.
Troubled Final Years of Dr Steven Lin
Dr Steven Lin was once known internationally as a dental nutritionist and author. He previously operated two dental practices on the New South Wales Central Coast and wrote the best-selling book The Dental Diet.
His work focused on preventive dentistry and the role of nutrition in oral health. According to his website, he promoted the idea that diet plays a significant role in dental disease and orthodontic issues.
In recent years, however, his personal life reportedly deteriorated. Reports suggest he struggled with ice addiction following the breakdown of his marriage and the revelation that he had fathered a child in secret.
Legal Issues Before the Sydney Dentist Attack
Just days before the Sydney dentist attack, Dr Lin appeared in Wollongong Local Court over allegations that he had assaulted a sex worker and stolen money during a 2025 incident.
The charges were dismissed after the complainant failed to appear in court. However, court records indicated that he had previously breached bail conditions multiple times.
Documents also cited assault cases, choking-related allegations, and breaches of apprehended violence orders. Authorities alleged that he had a history of violent behaviour toward women and had repeatedly ignored court-imposed restrictions.
Community Shock After Fatal Incident
The shocking Sydney dentist attack has stunned residents of Potts Point and raised new questions about how the once-successful dentist’s life spiraled into violence.
Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting, which is standard procedure following any officer-involved death.
Meanwhile, Ms Paul continues to recover from her injuries as investigators work to piece together the events that led to the deadly confrontation inside her home.
