At least 16 individuals lost their lives and more than 40 were hurt when gunmen opened fire at a Hanukah celebration at Bondi Beach, an attack Australian police are describing as a terrorist attack.
In the latest update, officials have confirmed the number of fatalities is 16, including one of the alleged gunmen. Furthermore, 42 people with injuries were admitted to the hospital.
Those who died have not yet been officially identified, but investigators think their ages are from 10 and 87 years old.
Below are the individuals who are known at this time.
London-born rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was initially identified.
Described as a father-of-five, he was the assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Family members and friends spoke of him as “vivacious, energetic, full of life and a very kind and sociable person who was dedicated to assisting others”.
“How is it possible that a joyful rabbi who went to a beach to spread happiness and light, to make the world a better place, have his life ended in this way?” a family member asked.
Schlanger and his wife had recently celebrated the arrival of their youngest child just a few months ago.
Alexander Kleytman also lost his life, as stated by his wife.
She recounted the moments before the attack, explaining they were standing when the shooting started. “He moved to protect me because he wanted to stay near me,” she stated.
The pair were both Holocaust survivors, having endured unspeakable terror in their youth. They had later immigrated to Australia from Eastern Europe.
The French foreign ministry have announced that French man Dan Elkayam is among the victims.
Officially, the Foreign Minister said that France shared the grief of his family, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.
“This despicable act is a new, tragic manifestation of a revolting outpouring of antisemitic hatred that we must put a stop to,” the statement read.
A young girl, aged 10 who was taken to the Sydney Children’s Hospital is among those who had died, authorities stated.
One victim from Israel was also killed in the incident, as per reports referencing the Israeli government.
From the 42 people taken to hospital, many remain receiving treatment, with a number in serious condition. Those hurt comprise two officers who attended the scene.
One of the injured is a member of the public who attempted to intervene to confront one of the attackers. Described as a hero, he received bullet wounds but is in stable condition in hospital.
One of those wounded is Arsen Ostrovsky, a human rights lawyer. Sources state he was wounded and underwent treatment in hospital.
In a message, he described the incident as an “absolute bloodbath,” but also noted the response of those who rushed to help. He said he felt it was a “miracle” he was alive.
Evan Zlatkis, a community director, was also injured in the attack. He told reporters he heard “dozens and dozens” of shots.
“I thought it was something less lethal, but it’s gone into my own skin and into my leg,” he stated. “I’ve been shot myself. I received first aid. I’m ok.”
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