Information Available Regarding the Those Lost of the Bondi Beach Terror Attack
At least 16 individuals were killed and in excess of 40 were hurt when gunmen opened fire at a Hanukkah gathering at Bondi Beach, an incident local authorities are describing as a terrorist attack.
According to the most recent information, officials have stated the number of fatalities stands at 16, which includes one of the alleged gunmen. Furthermore, 42 injured people were transported to the hospital.
The deceased are yet to be publicly named, but police believe their ages range between 10 and 87 years old.
Below are the victims who have been identified at this time.
Eli Schlanger
London-born clergyman Eli Schlanger, 41, was the first victim to be named.
Known as a father of five children, he worked as the associate rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Relatives and friends described him as “lively, dynamic, and vibrant and a very kind and sociable person who was dedicated to assisting others”.
“How is it possible that a happy rabbi who went to a beach to spread happiness and light, to make the world a better place, lose his life in this way?” a relative asked.
Schlanger and his wife had recently celebrated the birth of their newest son just a few months ago.
Alexander Kleytman
Alexander Kleytman also lost his life, as stated by his wife.
She described the events before the shooting, explaining they were standing when the shooting erupted. “He moved to protect me because he wished to be near me,” she stated.
The pair were both survivors of the Holocaust, having endured immense hardship in their childhood. They had subsequently relocated to Australia from Eastern Europe.
Dan Elkayam
The French authorities have announced that French national Dan Elkayam is a casualty.
Publicly, the Foreign Minister said that France mourned with his family, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.
“This low act is a new, tragic manifestation of a revolting outpouring of hatred against Jews that we must put a stop to,” the message continued.
One Child
A young girl, aged 10 who was rushed to the a children's hospital succumbed to her injuries, police have confirmed.
One Israeli Citizen
One victim from Israel was a fatality during the attack, according to multiple sources referencing the Israeli foreign ministry.
Those Injured
From the 42 people taken to hospital, many are still receiving treatment, with a number in serious condition. The injured include two police officers who responded to the attack.
A wounded man is a member of the public who rushed to the scene to tackle one of the gunmen. Described as a local hero, he received bullet wounds but is in stable condition in hospital.
Arsen Ostrovsky
One of those wounded is Arsen Ostrovsky, a community leader. Reports indicate he was hurt and underwent treatment in hospital.
Communicating, he recounted the scene as an “horrific scene,” but also praised the response of those who came to assist. He stated he believed it was a “miracle” he survived.
Evan Zlatkis
Evan Zlatkis, a media director, was also injured in the shooting. He described he listened to “dozens and dozens” of gunshots.
“I thought it was something less lethal, but it penetrated my own skin and into my leg,” he said. “I was hit. They bandaged me up. I’m ok.”