Information Available Concerning the Fatalities of the Bondi Beach Terrorist Incident
At least 16 lives were killed and more than 40 sustained injuries when assailants fired on a Hanukah gathering at Bondi Beach, an attack local police have called a act of terrorism.
In the latest update, authorities have announced the death toll remains at 16, which includes one of the alleged gunmen. Additionally, 42 wounded individuals were transported to hospital.
The deceased are still awaiting officially identified, but authorities state their ages range from 10 and 87 years old.
Below are the individuals who are known so far.
Eli Schlanger
Originally from London clergyman Eli Schlanger, 41, was the first victim to be named.
Described as a father-of-five, he worked as the assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Relatives and acquaintances 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 happy 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 relative 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 described the moments before the shooting, stating they had been standing together when the gunfire started. “He shielded me because he wished to be near me,” she said.
The husband and wife were both survivors of the Holocaust, having endured immense hardship in their youth. They had later 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 mourned with his family, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.
“This despicable act is a fresh and tragic example of a revolting outpouring of hatred against Jews that we must put a stop to,” the statement continued.
One Child
A 10-year-old girl 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 multiple sources referencing the Israeli government.
Those Injured
From the 42 people taken to hospital, a significant number remain under care, with five in critical condition. The injured include two police officers who responded to the attack.
One of the injured is a bystander who rushed to the scene to confront one of the attackers. Called a local hero, he sustained bullet wounds but is expected to recover in hospital.
Arsen Ostrovsky
One of those wounded is Arsen Ostrovsky, a human rights lawyer. Sources state he was wounded and underwent treatment in hospital.
Communicating, he described the incident as an “absolute bloodbath,” but also praised the response of those who rushed to help. He said he felt it was a “stroke of luck” he was alive.
Evan Zlatkis
Evan Zlatkis, a media director, was also injured in the shooting. He told reporters he listened to “dozens and dozens” of shots.
“I thought it was something less lethal, but it penetrated my own skin and into my leg,” he stated. “I sustained a gunshot wound. I received first aid. I’m ok.”