The Details Known Concerning the Fatalities of the Bondi Terror Attack
A minimum of 16 people lost their lives and more than 40 were hurt when gunmen shot at a Hanukah event at Bondi Beach, a tragedy Australian authorities are describing as a act of terrorism.
As of the newest reports, officials have confirmed the death toll stands at 16, which includes one of the alleged attackers. Moreover, 42 injured people were admitted to medical facilities.
The deceased are still awaiting formally identified, but police believe their ages range between 10 and 87 years old.
Below are the victims who have been named to date.
Eli Schlanger
Originally from London rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was the first victim to be named.
Reportedly a father-of-five, he served as the associate rabbi at a local Jewish cultural centre. 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 can a joyful rabbi who went to a beach to spread happiness and light, to make the world a better place, meet his end in this way?” a family member asked.
Schlanger and his wife had recently celebrated the birth of their youngest child in October.
Alexander Kleytman
Alexander Kleytman was also among those killed, according to his wife.
She described the events before the shooting, explaining they were standing when the shooting started. “He shielded me because he wanted to stay near me,” she said.
The husband and wife were both Holocaust survivors, having faced immense hardship in their youth. They had subsequently relocated to Australia from Ukraine.
Dan Elkayam
The French authorities have confirmed that French man Dan Elkayam is among the victims.
In a statement, a senior official 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 disgusting rise of hatred against Jews that we must put a stop to,” the statement read.
One Child
A 10-year-old girl who was taken to the a children's hospital succumbed to her injuries, authorities stated.
One Israeli Citizen
One victim from Israel was among those killed during the attack, according to reports citing the Israeli foreign ministry.
Those Injured
From the 42 people transported to hospitals, a significant number are still under care, with five in critical condition. Those hurt comprise two officers who attended the scene.
A casualty is a bystander who attempted to intervene to tackle one of the gunmen. Hailed as a hero, he sustained gunshot wounds but is recovering well in hospital.
Arsen Ostrovsky
One of those wounded is Arsen Ostrovsky, a public affairs professional. It has been reported he was wounded and underwent treatment in hospital.
In a message, he described the scene as an “absolute bloodbath,” but also noted the response of those who came to assist. He said he felt it was a “miracle” he survived.
Evan Zlatkis
Evan Zlatkis, a media director, was also injured in the attack. He told reporters he heard “dozens and dozens” of gunshots.
“I thought it was rubber bullets, but it’s gone into my own skin and into my leg,” he said. “I was hit. I received first aid. I’m ok.”