What We Know Concerning the Victims of the Bondi Beach Shooting
At least 16 people lost their lives and in excess of 40 were hurt when attackers fired on a Hanukah event at Bondi Beach, a tragedy Australian police are describing as a act of terrorism.
As of the newest reports, officials have announced the death toll stands at 16, including one of the alleged attackers. Furthermore, 42 wounded individuals were transported to hospital.
Those who died are yet to be officially identified, but investigators think their ages range from 10 and 87 years old.
Here are the victims who are known so far.
Eli Schlanger
Originally from London clergyman Eli Schlanger, 41, was initially identified.
Described as a father-of-five, he was the associate rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Relatives and acquaintances described him as “lively, dynamic, and vibrant and a very warm outgoing person who was dedicated to assisting others”.
“How can 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 family member said.
Schlanger and his wife had recently celebrated the arrival of their newest son just a few months ago.
Alexander Kleytman
Alexander Kleytman was also confirmed among the deceased, according to his wife.
She recounted the moments leading up to the shooting, explaining they were standing when the gunfire erupted. “He shielded me because he wished to be near me,” she recalled.
The couple were both Holocaust survivors, having endured immense hardship in their youth. They had subsequently relocated to Australia from Ukraine.
Dan Elkayam
French authorities have confirmed that French man Dan Elkayam is a casualty.
Officially, a senior official said that France mourned with his family and loved ones, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.
“This low act is a fresh and tragic example of a disgusting rise of antisemitic hatred that we must combat,” the message read.
One Child
A child who was taken to the Sydney Children’s Hospital succumbed to her injuries, authorities stated.
One Israeli Citizen
An Israeli citizen was among those killed during the attack, according to multiple sources citing the Israeli government.
Those Injured
From the 42 people taken to hospital, many remain under care, with several in serious condition. The injured include two officers who attended the scene.
A wounded man is a member of the public who attempted to intervene to tackle one of the gunmen. Hailed as a local hero, he received gunshot wounds but is in stable condition in hospital.
Arsen Ostrovsky
Among the injured is Arsen Ostrovsky, a community leader. Sources state he was wounded and is receiving treatment in hospital.
In a message, he recounted the incident as an “absolute bloodbath,” but also noted the response of those who came to assist. He said he believed it was a “miracle” he was alive.
Evan Zlatkis
Evan Zlatkis, a community director, was another casualty in the attack. He described he heard “a large number” of gunshots.
“I thought it was something less lethal, but it’s gone into my own skin and into my leg,” he said. “I was hit. They bandaged me up. I’m ok.”