The Details Known Regarding the Victims of the Bondi Terror Attack
A minimum of 16 people lost their lives and over 40 sustained injuries when gunmen fired on a Hanukah event at Bondi Beach, an incident Australian authorities have labeled a act of terrorism.
As of the newest reports, officials have announced the number of fatalities remains at 16, encompassing one of the suspected attackers. Additionally, 42 injured people were transported to hospital.
The deceased are yet to be officially identified, but investigators think their ages span from 10 and 87 years old.
Below are the victims who have been identified at this time.
Eli Schlanger
Originally from London clergyman Eli Schlanger, 41, was initially identified.
Described as a father of five children, he served as the assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Relatives and acquaintances remembered him as “lively, dynamic, and vibrant and a very kind and sociable person who was dedicated to assisting others”.
“How is it possible that a joyful rabbi who went to a beach to spread happiness and light, to make the world a better place, have his life ended in this way?” a relative said.
Schlanger and his wife had recently celebrated the arrival of their newest son in October.
Alexander Kleytman
Alexander Kleytman also lost his life, according to his wife.
She described the events before the shooting, stating they were standing when the gunfire erupted. “He moved to protect me because he wanted to stay near me,” she said.
The pair were both survivors of the Holocaust, having endured unspeakable terror in their youth. They had later immigrated to Australia from Eastern Europe.
Dan Elkayam
French authorities have confirmed that French man Dan Elkayam is among the dead.
Officially, a senior official declared that France mourned with his family, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.
“This cowardly attack is a fresh and tragic example of a revolting outpouring of antisemitic hatred that we must eradicate,” the statement continued.
One Child
A child who was rushed to the Sydney Children’s Hospital has been confirmed among the fatalities, according to police reports.
One Israeli Citizen
An Israeli citizen was a fatality in the incident, as per reports citing the Israeli government.
Those Injured
From the 42 people transported to hospitals, a significant number are still under care, with a number in critical condition. The injured include two officers who attended the scene.
A wounded man is a bystander who attempted to intervene to confront one of the attackers. Called a local hero, he received bullet wounds but is expected to recover in hospital.
Arsen Ostrovsky
One of those wounded is Arsen Ostrovsky, a community leader. Reports indicate he was hurt and is receiving treatment in hospital.
In a message, he recounted the scene as an “utter carnage,” but also praised the actions of those who came to assist. He said he believed it was a “miracle” he was alive.
Evan Zlatkis
Evan Zlatkis, a media director, was also injured in the attack. He said he heard “a large number” of gunshots.
“Initially, I believed it was rubber bullets, but it’s gone into my own skin and into my leg,” he stated. “I sustained a gunshot wound. I received first aid. I’m ok.”