Information Available About the Fatalities of the Bondi Beach Shooting
A minimum of 16 individuals were killed and over 40 were wounded when attackers opened fire at a Hanukah celebration at Bondi Beach, an incident Australian police have labeled a act of terrorism.
According to the most recent information, officials have confirmed the number of fatalities stands at 16, including one of the suspected attackers. Furthermore, 42 people with injuries were admitted to medical facilities.
The victims have not yet been publicly named, but authorities state their ages are from 10 and 87 years of age.
Here are the individuals who are known so far.
Eli Schlanger
Originally from London rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was the first victim to be named.
Described as a father-of-five, he served as the associate rabbi at a local Jewish cultural centre. Relatives and friends remembered him as “lively, dynamic, and vibrant 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 family member remarked.
Schlanger and his wife had recently celebrated the arrival of their newest son just a few months ago.
Alexander Kleytman
Alexander Kleytman was also confirmed among the deceased, as stated by his wife.
She described the events before the attack, stating they were standing when the shooting erupted. “He pushed his body up because he wished to be near me,” she stated.
The husband and wife were both survivors of the Holocaust, having endured unspeakable terror in their youth. They had later relocated to Australia from Ukraine.
Dan Elkayam
The French authorities have announced that French man Dan Elkayam is a casualty.
Officially, a senior official said that France mourned with his family, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.
“This despicable act is a fresh and tragic example of a disgusting rise of hatred against Jews that we must eradicate,” the statement continued.
One Child
A 10-year-old girl who was rushed to the Sydney Children’s Hospital has been confirmed among the fatalities, authorities stated.
One Israeli Citizen
A national of Israel was a fatality during the attack, according to reports citing the Israeli foreign ministry.
Those Injured
From the 42 people taken to hospitals, many are still receiving treatment, with several in a critical state. Those hurt comprise two officers who attended the scene.
One of the injured is a bystander who rushed to the scene to tackle one of the gunmen. Called a hero, he sustained bullet wounds but is expected to recover in hospital.
Arsen Ostrovsky
Among the injured is Arsen Ostrovsky, a human rights lawyer. Sources state he was hurt and is receiving treatment in hospital.
In a message, he recounted the incident as an “absolute bloodbath,” but also praised the response of those who came to assist. He said he felt it was a “miracle” he survived.
Evan Zlatkis
Evan Zlatkis, a media director, was another casualty in the attack. He described he heard “dozens and dozens” of gunshots.
“Initially, I believed it was rubber bullets, but it’s gone into my own skin and into my leg,” he explained. “I’ve been shot myself. They bandaged me up. I’m ok.”