The Details Known Concerning the Those Lost of the Bondi Terror Attack
No fewer than 16 people perished and more than 40 sustained injuries when gunmen shot at a Hanukkah event at Bondi Beach, an attack local authorities have labeled a act of terrorism.
As of the newest reports, officials have stated the death toll remains at 16, encompassing one of the alleged gunmen. Furthermore, 42 people with injuries were taken to the hospital.
The deceased have not yet been publicly named, but authorities state their ages span between 10 and 87 years of age.
Here are the victims who have been identified so far.
Eli Schlanger
Originally from London rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was the first to be publicly identified.
Reportedly a father of five children, he served as the associate rabbi at a local Jewish cultural centre. Relatives and acquaintances described him as “lively, dynamic, and vibrant and a very warm outgoing person who was dedicated to assisting others”.
“How is it possible that a joyful rabbi who went to a beach to share joy and positivity, to make the world a better place, meet his end in this way?” a relative remarked.
Schlanger and his wife had recently celebrated the arrival of their youngest child just a few months ago.
Alexander Kleytman
Alexander Kleytman also lost his life, according to his wife.
She described the events leading up to the shooting, stating they had been standing together when the shooting started. “He pushed his body up because he wished to be near me,” she stated.
The husband and wife were both survivors of the Holocaust, having faced immense hardship in their childhood. They had subsequently immigrated to Australia from Ukraine.
Dan Elkayam
French authorities have announced that French national Dan Elkayam is among the victims.
Publicly, a senior official declared that France mourned with his family, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.
“This despicable act is a fresh and tragic example of a revolting outpouring of hatred against Jews that we must combat,” the statement continued.
One Child
A 10-year-old girl who was rushed to the a children's hospital is among those who had died, authorities stated.
One Israeli Citizen
An Israeli citizen was among those killed during the attack, as per multiple sources referencing the Israeli foreign ministry.
Those Injured
Of the 42 people transported to hospitals, many are still receiving treatment, with several in critical condition. Those hurt include two police officers who attended the scene.
A wounded man is a bystander who rushed to the scene to tackle one of the attackers. Called a hero, he received bullet wounds but is expected to recover in hospital.
Arsen Ostrovsky
Among the injured is Arsen Ostrovsky, a human rights lawyer. Sources state he was hurt and is receiving treatment in hospital.
Communicating, he recounted the incident as an “absolute bloodbath,” but also noted the response of those who rushed to help. He said he believed it was a “stroke of luck” he survived.
Evan Zlatkis
Evan Zlatkis, a media director, was also injured in the attack. He described he heard “a large number” of shots.
“Initially, I believed it was rubber bullets, but it penetrated my own skin and into my leg,” he stated. “I’ve been shot myself. I received first aid. I’m ok.”