The Details Known Regarding the Victims of the Bondi Beach Terrorist Incident
No fewer than 16 individuals lost their lives and in excess of 40 were hurt when attackers opened fire at a Hanukkah gathering at Bondi Beach, an attack local authorities have labeled a act of terrorism.
In the latest update, officials have announced the number of fatalities stands at 16, which includes one of the suspected gunmen. Furthermore, 42 people with injuries were transported to hospital.
Those who died are yet to be publicly named, but investigators think their ages range from 10 and 87 years old.
Listed are the individuals who are known to date.
Eli Schlanger
Originally from London rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was the first victim to be named.
Described as a father of five children, he worked as the assistant rabbi at a local Jewish cultural centre. Family members and acquaintances spoke of him as “vivacious, energetic, full of life and a very kind and sociable person who loved to help people”.
“How can 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 remarked.
Schlanger and his wife celebrated the birth of their newest son 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 attack, explaining they were standing when the gunfire erupted. “He shielded me because he wished to be near me,” she said.
The pair were both Holocaust survivors, having experienced unspeakable terror in their youth. They had later immigrated to Australia from Eastern Europe.
Dan Elkayam
French foreign ministry have confirmed that French national Dan Elkayam is among the victims.
In a statement, a senior official declared that France mourned with his family, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.
“This despicable act is a new, tragic manifestation of a disgusting rise 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 has been confirmed among the fatalities, according to police reports.
One Israeli Citizen
One victim from Israel was also killed in the incident, according to multiple sources referencing the Israeli government.
Those Injured
From the 42 people taken to hospital, many remain under care, with five in serious condition. Those hurt comprise two police officers who responded to the attack.
A wounded man is a member of the public who attempted to intervene to tackle one of the gunmen. Called a hero, he sustained gunshot wounds but is expected to recover in hospital.
Arsen Ostrovsky
Among the injured is Arsen Ostrovsky, a human rights lawyer. It has been reported he was wounded and underwent treatment in hospital.
Communicating, he recounted the incident as an “utter carnage,” but also praised the response of those who rushed to help. He said he felt it was a “stroke of luck” he was alive.
Evan Zlatkis
Evan Zlatkis, a community director, was also injured in the shooting. He told reporters he listened to “dozens and dozens” of gunshots.
“Initially, I believed it was rubber bullets, 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.”