Information Available About the Fatalities of the Bondi Terror Attack
At least 16 individuals perished and over 40 sustained injuries when gunmen opened fire at a Hanukah event at Bondi Beach, an incident local police are describing as a terrorist attack.
In the latest update, officials have stated the number of fatalities stands at 16, including one of the suspected attackers. Moreover, 42 people with injuries were taken to hospital.
The deceased are yet to be officially identified, but authorities state their ages span between 10 and 87 years of age.
Listed are the victims who are known so far.
Eli Schlanger
London-born clergyman Eli Schlanger, 41, was the first victim to be named.
Described as a father of five children, he worked as the associate rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Family members and acquaintances described him as “vivacious, energetic, full of life and a very warm outgoing person who was dedicated to assisting others”.
“How is it possible that a happy 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 relative asked.
Schlanger and his wife celebrated the arrival of their youngest child just a few months ago.
Alexander Kleytman
Alexander Kleytman was also among those killed, as stated by his wife.
She recounted the moments leading up to the attack, explaining they had been standing together when the gunfire began. “He shielded me because he wanted to stay near me,” she said.
The couple were both survivors of the Holocaust, having endured unspeakable terror in their youth. They had later relocated to Australia from Eastern Europe.
Dan Elkayam
The French authorities have announced that French national Dan Elkayam is among the dead.
In a statement, the Foreign Minister declared 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 put a stop to,” the message read.
One Child
A young girl, aged 10 who was rushed to the a children's hospital is among those who had died, according to police reports.
One Israeli Citizen
An Israeli citizen was a fatality in the incident, as per multiple sources citing the Israeli government.
Those Injured
From the 42 people taken to hospitals, a significant number remain under care, with several in a critical state. Those hurt comprise two officers who attended the scene.
One of the injured is a member of the public who attempted to intervene to confront one of the gunmen. Described as a hero, he sustained gunshot wounds but is expected to recover in hospital.
Arsen Ostrovsky
One of those wounded is Arsen Ostrovsky, a public affairs professional. It has been reported he was wounded and is receiving treatment in hospital.
Communicating, he recounted the scene as an “absolute bloodbath,” but also noted the response of those who came to assist. He stated he believed it was a “miracle” he survived.
Evan Zlatkis
Evan Zlatkis, a community director, was another casualty in the shooting. He described 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 said. “I’ve been shot myself. They bandaged me up. I’m ok.”