Information Available About the Fatalities of the Bondi Beach Terror Attack

At least 16 lives perished and over 40 were hurt when attackers opened fire at a Hanukah gathering at Bondi Beach, an attack Australian authorities are describing as a act of terrorism.

As of the newest reports, authorities have stated the death toll is 16, encompassing one of the alleged gunmen. Moreover, 42 wounded individuals were transported to medical facilities.

The deceased are still awaiting officially identified, but investigators think their ages span from 10 and 87 years old.

Here are the victims who are known at this time.

Eli Schlanger

London-born rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was the first to be publicly identified.

Known as a father of five children, he worked as the assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Family members and acquaintances spoke of him as “vivacious, energetic, full of life and a very kind and sociable person who was dedicated to assisting others”.

“How can a happy rabbi who went to a beach to share joy and positivity, 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 just a few months ago.

Alexander Kleytman

Alexander Kleytman was also among those killed, according to his wife.

She recounted the moments leading up to the attack, saying they were standing when the gunfire erupted. “He shielded me because he wished to be near me,” she said.

The husband and wife were both Holocaust survivors, having experienced unspeakable terror in their childhood. They had later relocated to Australia from Ukraine.

Dan Elkayam

The French authorities have announced that French national Dan Elkayam is a casualty.

Publicly, the Foreign Minister expressed that France mourned with his family, 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 put a stop to,” the message read.

One Child

A child who was taken to the Sydney Children’s Hospital has been confirmed among the fatalities, according to police reports.

One Israeli Citizen

A national of Israel was among those killed during the attack, as per multiple sources citing the Israeli government.

Those Injured

Of the 42 people transported to hospital, a significant number are still receiving treatment, with five in serious condition. Those hurt include two police officers who responded to the attack.

One of the injured is a bystander who rushed to the scene to tackle one of the gunmen. Called a local hero, he sustained bullet wounds but is recovering well in hospital.

Arsen Ostrovsky

Among the injured is Arsen Ostrovsky, a human rights lawyer. Reports indicate he was injured and underwent treatment in hospital.

Communicating, he recounted the incident as an “horrific scene,” but also noted the response of those who came to assist. He stated he believed it was a “miracle” he survived.

Evan Zlatkis

Evan Zlatkis, a media director, was another casualty in the shooting. He described he heard “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.”