The Details Known Regarding the Fatalities of the Bondi Beach Terrorist Incident
A minimum of 16 people were killed and in excess of 40 were hurt when attackers fired on a Hanukkah event at Bondi Beach, an incident Australian police have labeled a act of terrorism.
According to the most recent information, authorities have announced the death toll remains at 16, which includes one of the suspected gunmen. Moreover, 42 people with injuries were taken to the hospital.
The deceased are yet to be officially identified, but police believe their ages are between 10 and 87 years old.
Below are the individuals who are known so far.
Eli Schlanger
Originally from London rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was the first victim to be named.
Described as a father-of-five, he served as the assistant rabbi at a local Jewish cultural centre. Relatives and friends described him as “vivacious, energetic, full of life and a very kind and sociable person who loved to help people”.
“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, lose his life in this way?” a family member asked.
Schlanger and his wife celebrated the birth of their newest son in October.
Alexander Kleytman
Alexander Kleytman also lost his life, as stated by his wife.
She recounted the moments leading up to the shooting, stating they had been standing together when the shooting erupted. “He pushed his body up because he wanted to stay near me,” she said.
The couple were both survivors of the Holocaust, having endured unspeakable terror in their childhood. They had later relocated to Australia from Eastern Europe.
Dan Elkayam
The French foreign ministry have confirmed that French national Dan Elkayam is a casualty.
Publicly, the Foreign Minister said that France mourned with his family and loved ones, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.
“This despicable 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 child who was taken to the Sydney Children’s Hospital is among those who had died, authorities stated.
One Israeli Citizen
An Israeli citizen was among those killed in the incident, according to multiple sources citing the Israeli foreign ministry.
Those Injured
Of the 42 people taken to hospital, a significant number remain receiving treatment, with several in a critical state. Those hurt comprise two police officers who responded to the attack.
A casualty is a bystander who attempted to intervene to confront one of the attackers. Hailed as a local hero, he sustained bullet wounds but is recovering well in hospital.
Arsen Ostrovsky
One of those wounded is Arsen Ostrovsky, a community leader. It has been reported he was hurt and is receiving treatment in hospital.
He wrote, he described the incident as an “absolute bloodbath,” but also noted the actions of those who rushed to help. He said he felt it was a “miracle” he survived.
Evan Zlatkis
Evan Zlatkis, a community director, was also injured in the attack. He said he heard “dozens and dozens” of gunshots.
“Initially, I believed it was something less lethal, but it’s gone into my own skin and into my leg,” he stated. “I’ve been shot myself. They bandaged me up. I’m ok.”