What We Know About the Fatalities of the Bondi Beach Terror Attack
At least 16 lives were killed and over 40 sustained injuries when attackers fired on a Hanukah event at Bondi Beach, an attack local police have labeled a act of terrorism.
As of the newest reports, authorities have announced the death toll remains at 16, encompassing one of the alleged gunmen. Moreover, 42 wounded individuals were admitted to hospital.
Those who died are still awaiting officially identified, but authorities state their ages range between 10 and 87 years old.
Below are the individuals who have been named to date.
Eli Schlanger
London-born rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was the first victim to be named.
Described as a father of five children, he was the associate rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Relatives and friends described him as “vivacious, energetic, full of life and a very warm outgoing person who was dedicated to assisting others”.
“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, lose his life in this way?” a relative said.
Schlanger and his wife had recently celebrated the arrival of their newest son just a few months ago.
Alexander Kleytman
Alexander Kleytman was also among those killed, according to his wife.
She recounted the moments leading up to the shooting, saying they were standing when the gunfire started. “He pushed his body up because he wanted to stay near me,” she recalled.
The couple were both survivors of the Holocaust, having endured unspeakable terror in their childhood. They had subsequently relocated to Australia from Ukraine.
Dan Elkayam
The French authorities have announced that French national Dan Elkayam is among the dead.
Officially, the Foreign Minister expressed that France mourned with his family, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.
“This low act is a new, tragic manifestation of a revolting outpouring of hatred against Jews that we must put a stop to,” the message read.
One Child
A 10-year-old girl who was rushed to the a children's hospital has been confirmed among the fatalities, authorities stated.
One Israeli Citizen
An Israeli citizen was also killed during the attack, as per reports citing the Israeli government.
Those Injured
Of the 42 people transported to hospitals, a significant number remain under care, with five in a critical state. Those hurt comprise two police officers who attended the scene.
One of the injured is a member of the public who rushed to the scene to confront one of the attackers. Hailed as a hero, he received gunshot wounds but is in stable condition in hospital.
Arsen Ostrovsky
One of those wounded is Arsen Ostrovsky, a public affairs professional. Reports indicate he was injured and is receiving treatment in hospital.
In a message, he recounted the incident as an “utter carnage,” but also noted the actions of those who came to assist. He said he felt it was a “miracle” he survived.
Evan Zlatkis
Evan Zlatkis, a media director, was also injured in the attack. He said he listened to “dozens and dozens” of gunshots.
“Initially, I believed it was something less lethal, but it’s gone into my own skin and into my leg,” he stated. “I sustained a gunshot wound. They bandaged me up. I’m ok.”