Information Available Regarding the Fatalities of the Bondi Beach Terrorist Incident
At least 16 individuals lost their lives and more than 40 sustained injuries when assailants opened fire at a Hanukah gathering at Bondi Beach, a tragedy Australian police are describing as a act of terrorism.
As of the newest reports, authorities have stated the death toll remains at 16, encompassing one of the suspected gunmen. Additionally, 42 wounded individuals were admitted to medical facilities.
The deceased have not yet been publicly named, but police believe their ages are from 10 and 87 years old.
Here are the individuals who have been named at this time.
Eli Schlanger
Originally from London rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was initially identified.
Reportedly a father-of-five, he worked as the associate rabbi at a local Jewish cultural centre. Relatives and friends remembered him as “vivacious, energetic, full of life and a very warm outgoing person who loved to help people”.
“How is it possible that 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 asked.
Schlanger and his wife celebrated the arrival of their newest son just a few months ago.
Alexander Kleytman
Alexander Kleytman also lost his life, as stated by his wife.
She described the events leading up to the shooting, stating they were standing when the gunfire erupted. “He shielded me because he wanted to stay near me,” she recalled.
The couple were both survivors of the Holocaust, having experienced immense hardship in their youth. They had later moved to Australia from Ukraine.
Dan Elkayam
The French authorities have confirmed that French national Dan Elkayam is among the victims.
In a statement, the Foreign Minister expressed that France shared the grief of 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 hatred against Jews that we must combat,” the statement continued.
One Child
A young girl, aged 10 who was taken to the a children's hospital succumbed to her injuries, authorities stated.
One Israeli Citizen
A national of Israel was a fatality during the attack, as per multiple sources referencing the Israeli government.
Those Injured
From the 42 people transported to hospitals, many are still under care, with several in critical condition. Those hurt include two police officers who attended the scene.
A wounded man is a bystander who attempted to intervene to confront one of the gunmen. Hailed as a hero, he sustained bullet wounds but is in stable condition in hospital.
Arsen Ostrovsky
One of those wounded is Arsen Ostrovsky, a public affairs professional. Sources state he was wounded and is receiving treatment in hospital.
In a message, he recounted the incident as an “horrific scene,” but also praised the actions of those who came to assist. He stated he felt it was a “miracle” he survived.
Evan Zlatkis
Evan Zlatkis, a community director, was another casualty in the shooting. He told reporters he heard “a large number” of shots.
“Initially, I believed it was rubber bullets, but it penetrated my own skin and into my leg,” he stated. “I was hit. They bandaged me up. I’m ok.”