What We Know About the Fatalities of the Bondi Beach Terror Attack
A minimum of 16 people were killed and in excess of 40 were wounded when assailants opened fire at a Hanukah celebration at Bondi Beach, an attack local police have labeled a terrorist attack.
As of the newest reports, officials have announced the number of fatalities is 16, including one of the alleged attackers. Furthermore, 42 wounded individuals were admitted to medical facilities.
The victims have not yet been officially identified, but police believe their ages span between 10 and 87 years of age.
Listed are the individuals who have been identified so far.
Eli Schlanger
Originally from London clergyman Eli Schlanger, 41, was initially identified.
Described as a father-of-five, he served as the associate rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Family members and friends described 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 youngest child in October.
Alexander Kleytman
Alexander Kleytman also lost his life, as stated by his wife.
She recounted the events before the attack, saying they were standing when the shooting started. “He pushed his body up because he wished to be near me,” she stated.
The couple were both survivors of the Holocaust, having faced unspeakable terror in their childhood. They had later immigrated to Australia from Ukraine.
Dan Elkayam
The French authorities have announced that French national Dan Elkayam is among the victims.
Publicly, a senior official expressed that France mourned with his family, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.
“This despicable act is a new, tragic manifestation of a disgusting rise of antisemitic hatred that we must put a stop to,” the statement continued.
One Child
A 10-year-old girl who was rushed to the a children's hospital succumbed to her injuries, authorities stated.
One Israeli Citizen
An Israeli citizen was among those killed in the incident, according to reports referencing the Israeli government.
Those Injured
From the 42 people taken to hospital, a significant number are still under care, with a number in critical condition. Those hurt include two police officers who responded to the attack.
One of the injured is a member of the public who rushed to the scene to tackle one of the gunmen. Described as a local hero, he received gunshot wounds but is recovering well in hospital.
Arsen Ostrovsky
Among the injured is Arsen Ostrovsky, a community leader. Reports indicate he was injured and underwent treatment in hospital.
In a message, 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 survived.
Evan Zlatkis
Evan Zlatkis, a community director, was another casualty in the shooting. He said he heard “dozens and dozens” of gunshots.
“I thought it was something less lethal, but it’s gone into my own skin and into my leg,” he said. “I was hit. I received first aid. I’m ok.”