What We Know Regarding the Victims of the Bondi Shooting
At least 16 individuals lost their lives and over 40 were hurt when attackers fired on a Hanukah celebration at Bondi Beach, an attack Australian authorities have labeled a act of terrorism.
In the latest update, officials have announced the number of fatalities is 16, which includes one of the suspected gunmen. Furthermore, 42 injured people were transported to the hospital.
The victims have not yet been formally identified, but authorities state their ages are between 10 and 87 years of age.
Below are the victims who have been named so far.
Eli Schlanger
Originally from London rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was initially identified.
Reportedly a father-of-five, he was the assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Relatives and friends spoke of him as “lively, dynamic, and vibrant and a very warm outgoing person who was dedicated to assisting others”.
“How can 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 said.
Schlanger and his wife celebrated the birth of their youngest child just a few months ago.
Alexander Kleytman
Alexander Kleytman was also confirmed among the deceased, according to his wife.
She recounted the moments leading up to the attack, stating they were standing when the shooting began. “He pushed his body up because he wished to be near me,” she said.
The couple were both Holocaust survivors, having faced unspeakable terror in their youth. They had subsequently relocated to Australia from Eastern Europe.
Dan Elkayam
The French foreign ministry have confirmed that French national Dan Elkayam is a casualty.
Officially, the Foreign Minister expressed that France stood with his family and loved ones, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.
“This low act is a fresh and tragic example of a revolting outpouring of antisemitic hatred that we must eradicate,” the statement read.
One Child
A 10-year-old girl who was rushed to the Sydney Children’s Hospital has been confirmed among the fatalities, according to police reports.
One Israeli Citizen
A national of Israel was also killed in the incident, as per reports referencing the Israeli foreign ministry.
Those Injured
Of the 42 people transported to hospital, a significant number are still receiving treatment, with several in serious condition. 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 attackers. Called a hero, he sustained gunshot wounds but is in stable condition in hospital.
Arsen Ostrovsky
Among the injured is Arsen Ostrovsky, a human rights lawyer. Reports indicate he was wounded and is receiving treatment in hospital.
Communicating, he recounted the incident as an “utter carnage,” but also noted the response of those who rushed to help. He stated he felt it was a “miracle” he was alive.
Evan Zlatkis
Evan Zlatkis, a media director, was another casualty in the shooting. He described he heard “dozens and dozens” of shots.
“Initially, I believed 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.”