The Details Known About the Fatalities of the Bondi Beach Terror Attack
No fewer than 16 lives perished and more than 40 sustained injuries when gunmen fired on a Hanukah event at Bondi Beach, an incident Australian police have labeled a terrorist attack.
As of the newest reports, authorities have announced the death toll is 16, including one of the suspected gunmen. Furthermore, 42 wounded individuals were transported to the hospital.
The deceased have not yet been publicly named, but police believe their ages are from 10 and 87 years of age.
Below are the individuals who have been identified at this time.
Eli Schlanger
Originally from London clergyman Eli Schlanger, 41, was the first to be publicly identified.
Described as a father of five children, he served as the assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Family members and friends remembered him as “lively, dynamic, and vibrant and a very warm outgoing person who loved to help people”.
“How is it possible that a happy 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 remarked.
Schlanger and his wife 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 events before the shooting, saying they had been standing together when the shooting 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 childhood. They had subsequently relocated to Australia from Ukraine.
Dan Elkayam
French authorities have confirmed that French man Dan Elkayam is among the victims.
Officially, a senior official declared 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 hatred against Jews that we must combat,” the statement continued.
One Child
A young girl, aged 10 who was rushed to the a children's hospital is among those who had died, authorities stated.
One Israeli Citizen
An Israeli citizen was also killed during the attack, according to reports citing the Israeli foreign ministry.
Those Injured
Of the 42 people taken to hospitals, many remain under care, with five in serious condition. Those hurt include two police officers who attended the scene.
A casualty is a member of the public who rushed to the scene to tackle one of the gunmen. Hailed as a hero, he received gunshot wounds but is recovering well in hospital.
Arsen Ostrovsky
Among the injured is Arsen Ostrovsky, a public affairs professional. Reports indicate he was hurt and underwent treatment in hospital.
In a message, he described the incident as an “utter carnage,” but also noted the actions of those who came to assist. He said he believed it was a “miracle” he was alive.
Evan Zlatkis
Evan Zlatkis, a community director, was another casualty in the attack. He described he heard “a large number” 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. They bandaged me up. I’m ok.”