The Details Known About the Victims of the Bondi Shooting
At least 16 people were killed and more than 40 were wounded when attackers opened fire at a Hanukah gathering at Bondi Beach, an attack Australian authorities have called a terrorist attack.
According to the most recent information, authorities have announced the number of fatalities stands at 16, encompassing one of the alleged gunmen. Moreover, 42 wounded individuals were transported to the hospital.
The victims are still awaiting officially identified, but investigators think their ages range from 10 and 87 years old.
Here are the individuals who have been named at this time.
Eli Schlanger
Originally from London clergyman Eli Schlanger, 41, was initially identified.
Known as a father-of-five, he was the assistant rabbi at a local Jewish cultural centre. Relatives and acquaintances described him as “vivacious, energetic, full of life and a very warm outgoing person who loved to help people”.
“How can a joyful rabbi who went to a beach to spread happiness and light, to make the world a better place, lose his life in this way?” a family member asked.
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, as stated by his wife.
She told the events before the shooting, saying they were standing when the gunfire erupted. “He moved to protect 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 later immigrated to Australia from Ukraine.
Dan Elkayam
The French authorities have announced that French man Dan Elkayam is among the dead.
In a statement, 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 new, tragic manifestation of a revolting outpouring of antisemitic hatred that we must combat,” the message continued.
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
One victim from Israel was among those killed in the incident, according to multiple sources citing the Israeli foreign ministry.
Those Injured
Of the 42 people taken to hospital, a significant number are still receiving treatment, with five in a critical state. Those hurt comprise two officers who responded to the attack.
One of the injured is a bystander who attempted to intervene to confront one of the gunmen. Described as a local hero, he received bullet wounds but is recovering well in hospital.
Arsen Ostrovsky
One of those wounded is Arsen Ostrovsky, a public affairs professional. Reports indicate he was injured and underwent treatment in hospital.
In a message, he recounted the scene as an “utter carnage,” but also praised the actions of those who rushed to help. He said he felt it was a “stroke of luck” he was alive.
Evan Zlatkis
Evan Zlatkis, a community 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 said. “I was hit. I received first aid. I’m ok.”