The Details Known About the Victims of the Bondi Terror Attack
At least 16 people were killed and over 40 were wounded when gunmen opened fire at a Hanukkah event at Bondi Beach, an attack local police have labeled a terrorist attack.
As of the newest reports, authorities have confirmed the number of fatalities is 16, including one of the alleged gunmen. Furthermore, 42 people with injuries were transported to the hospital.
The victims have not yet been officially identified, but authorities state their ages span from 10 and 87 years of age.
Below are the individuals who have been named so far.
Eli Schlanger
Originally from London clergyman Eli Schlanger, 41, was the first victim to be named.
Reportedly a father-of-five, he worked as the assistant 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 can a joyful rabbi who went to a beach to spread happiness and light, to make the world a better place, have his life ended in this way?” a family member asked.
Schlanger and his wife had recently celebrated the birth of their newest son in October.
Alexander Kleytman
Alexander Kleytman was also among those killed, as stated by his wife.
She told the moments leading up to the shooting, stating they were standing when the shooting erupted. “He shielded me because he wanted to stay near me,” she said.
The couple were both survivors of the Holocaust, having faced unspeakable terror in their youth. They had subsequently immigrated to Australia from Ukraine.
Dan Elkayam
French authorities have announced that French national Dan Elkayam is among the victims.
Publicly, the Foreign Minister declared that France mourned 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 put a stop to,” the message read.
One Child
A child who was rushed to the Sydney Children’s Hospital succumbed to her injuries, authorities stated.
One Israeli Citizen
One victim from Israel was also killed during the attack, according to reports citing the Israeli foreign ministry.
Those Injured
Of the 42 people taken to hospitals, many are still receiving treatment, with several in serious condition. The injured include two police officers who attended the scene.
A casualty is a bystander who attempted to intervene to tackle one of the attackers. Described as a local hero, he received bullet wounds but is expected to recover in hospital.
Arsen Ostrovsky
One of those wounded is Arsen Ostrovsky, a public affairs professional. It has been reported he was hurt and is receiving treatment in hospital.
Communicating, he described the incident as an “absolute bloodbath,” but also praised the actions of those who rushed to help. 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 heard “dozens and dozens” of shots.
“Initially, I believed it was rubber bullets, but it penetrated my own skin and into my leg,” he explained. “I’ve been shot myself. I received first aid. I’m ok.”