The Details Known Concerning the Fatalities of the Bondi Beach Terrorist Incident
At least 16 individuals lost their lives and over 40 were wounded when attackers fired on a Hanukah gathering at Bondi Beach, an incident Australian authorities are describing as a act of terrorism.
According to the most recent information, authorities have confirmed the number of fatalities remains at 16, including one of the alleged gunmen. Additionally, 42 injured people were admitted to the hospital.
The deceased are yet to be officially identified, but investigators think their ages span from 10 and 87 years of age.
Listed are the individuals who have been named at this time.
Eli Schlanger
Originally from London clergyman Eli Schlanger, 41, was the first victim to be named.
Known as a father of five children, he was the associate rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Relatives and acquaintances described him as “lively, dynamic, and vibrant 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 remarked.
Schlanger and his wife had recently celebrated the birth of their newest son in October.
Alexander Kleytman
Alexander Kleytman was also confirmed among the deceased, as stated by his wife.
She recounted the events before the attack, saying they were standing when the shooting erupted. “He shielded me because he wished to be near me,” she said.
The husband and wife were both Holocaust survivors, having endured unspeakable terror in their youth. They had later moved to Australia from Eastern Europe.
Dan Elkayam
French foreign ministry have announced that French man Dan Elkayam is a casualty.
In a statement, a senior official expressed that France stood 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 combat,” the message read.
One Child
A child who was rushed to the a children's hospital succumbed to her injuries, police have confirmed.
One Israeli Citizen
An Israeli citizen was among those killed in the incident, as per reports referencing the Israeli foreign ministry.
Those Injured
From the 42 people taken to hospital, a significant number are still receiving treatment, with a number in a critical state. The injured comprise two police officers who responded to the attack.
A wounded man is a member of the public who rushed to the scene to tackle one of the attackers. Hailed as a local hero, he received gunshot wounds but is expected to recover in hospital.
Arsen Ostrovsky
Among the injured is Arsen Ostrovsky, a public affairs professional. Reports indicate he was wounded and underwent treatment in hospital.
He wrote, he described the incident as an “utter carnage,” but also noted the actions of those who rushed to help. He said he believed it was a “stroke of luck” he was alive.
Evan Zlatkis
Evan Zlatkis, a community director, was another casualty in the shooting. He told reporters he heard “dozens and dozens” of shots.
“I thought it was something less lethal, but it’s gone into my own skin and into my leg,” he stated. “I was hit. I received first aid. I’m ok.”