What We Know Regarding the Fatalities of the Bondi Beach Terrorist Incident

No fewer than 16 individuals perished and in excess of 40 were hurt when gunmen opened fire at a Hanukah event at Bondi Beach, a tragedy Australian authorities have labeled a terrorist attack.

According to the most recent information, officials have announced the death toll stands at 16, including one of the alleged gunmen. Furthermore, 42 wounded individuals were admitted to the hospital.

The deceased have not yet been officially identified, but police believe their ages are from 10 and 87 years old.

Below are the victims who have been named so far.

Eli Schlanger

London-born rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was initially identified.

Reportedly a father of five children, he served 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 was dedicated to assisting others”.

“How is it possible that a joyful 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 asked.

Schlanger and his wife had recently celebrated the arrival of their youngest child just a few months ago.

Alexander Kleytman

Alexander Kleytman was also confirmed among the deceased, according to his wife.

She told the moments leading up to the attack, explaining they were standing when the gunfire began. “He shielded me because he wanted to stay near me,” she recalled.

The couple were both survivors of the Holocaust, having endured unspeakable terror in their youth. They had subsequently immigrated to Australia from Eastern Europe.

Dan Elkayam

French authorities have confirmed that French man Dan Elkayam is among the dead.

Publicly, the Foreign Minister expressed that France shared the grief of his family and loved ones, 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 combat,” the message continued.

One Child

A 10-year-old girl who was taken to the a children's hospital is among those who had died, authorities stated.

One Israeli Citizen

One victim from Israel was also killed during the attack, according to multiple sources referencing the Israeli foreign ministry.

Those Injured

From the 42 people taken to hospitals, many are still receiving treatment, with five in critical condition. Those hurt comprise two police officers who attended the scene.

A wounded man is a bystander who attempted to intervene to tackle one of the gunmen. Described as a local hero, he received gunshot wounds but is recovering well in hospital.

Arsen Ostrovsky

One of those wounded is Arsen Ostrovsky, a community leader. Reports indicate he was injured and is receiving treatment in hospital.

In a message, he described the incident as an “horrific scene,” but also noted the actions of those who came to assist. He stated he felt it was a “miracle” he survived.

Evan Zlatkis

Evan Zlatkis, a media director, was also injured in the shooting. He described he listened to “dozens and dozens” of shots.

“Initially, I believed it was rubber bullets, but it penetrated my own skin and into my leg,” he said. “I’ve been shot myself. I received first aid. I’m ok.”