What We Know Regarding the Fatalities of the Bondi Terror Attack
A minimum of 16 lives lost their lives and over 40 were wounded when attackers shot at a Hanukah gathering at Bondi Beach, an attack Australian police are describing as a act of terrorism.
As of the newest reports, authorities have stated the death toll stands at 16, encompassing one of the suspected gunmen. Moreover, 42 wounded individuals were admitted to hospital.
Those who died are still awaiting publicly named, but police believe their ages are between 10 and 87 years old.
Below are the victims who have been identified at this time.
Eli Schlanger
Originally from London rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was the first to be publicly identified.
Reportedly a father-of-five, he worked as the assistant rabbi at a local Jewish cultural centre. Relatives and friends remembered him as “vivacious, energetic, full of life and a very kind and sociable person who loved to help people”.
“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, meet his end in this way?” a relative asked.
Schlanger and his wife celebrated the birth of their youngest child in October.
Alexander Kleytman
Alexander Kleytman was also confirmed among the deceased, according to his wife.
She told the moments before the shooting, stating they had been standing together when the gunfire began. “He shielded me because he wished to be near me,” she recalled.
The pair were both survivors of the Holocaust, having experienced unspeakable terror in their childhood. They had subsequently immigrated to Australia from Eastern Europe.
Dan Elkayam
The French foreign ministry have announced that French national Dan Elkayam is a casualty.
In a statement, the Foreign Minister declared that France stood with his family and loved ones, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.
“This cowardly attack is a new, tragic manifestation of a revolting outpouring of hatred against Jews that we must put a stop to,” the statement continued.
One Child
A child who was taken to the a children's hospital has been confirmed among the fatalities, police have confirmed.
One Israeli Citizen
A national of Israel was also killed during the attack, as per reports referencing the Israeli government.
Those Injured
From the 42 people transported to hospitals, a significant number remain receiving treatment, with a number in critical condition. Those hurt comprise two police officers who responded to the attack.
One of the injured is a member of the public who rushed to the scene to tackle one of the attackers. Hailed as a hero, he received gunshot wounds but is recovering well in hospital.
Arsen Ostrovsky
Among the injured is Arsen Ostrovsky, a community leader. Sources state he was injured and underwent treatment in hospital.
He wrote, he recounted the incident as an “absolute bloodbath,” but also praised the actions of those who came to assist. He stated he believed it was a “miracle” he survived.
Evan Zlatkis
Evan Zlatkis, a media director, was also injured in the shooting. He said he listened to “dozens and dozens” of gunshots.
“I thought it was rubber bullets, but it penetrated my own skin and into my leg,” he stated. “I’ve been shot myself. They bandaged me up. I’m ok.”
