The Details Known Regarding the Those Lost of the Bondi Beach Terror Attack

No fewer than 16 lives were killed and in excess of 40 were wounded when gunmen opened fire at a Hanukkah event at Bondi Beach, an attack local police have labeled a act of terrorism.

As of the newest reports, officials have stated the number of fatalities stands at 16, encompassing one of the alleged gunmen. Moreover, 42 people with injuries were taken to hospital.

The victims have not yet been publicly named, but police believe their ages are from 10 and 87 years old.

Below are the individuals who have been identified so far.

Eli Schlanger

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

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

“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, lose his life in this way?” a family member asked.

Schlanger and his wife celebrated the birth of their newest son just a few months ago.

Alexander Kleytman

Alexander Kleytman also lost his life, according to his wife.

She told the events before the shooting, saying they had been standing together when the gunfire began. “He moved to protect me because he wished to be near me,” she stated.

The pair were both Holocaust survivors, having endured unspeakable terror in their childhood. They had later immigrated to Australia from Ukraine.

Dan Elkayam

French authorities have confirmed that French national Dan Elkayam is among the victims.

Officially, the Foreign Minister said that France mourned with his family, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.

“This despicable act is a new, tragic manifestation of a revolting outpouring of antisemitic hatred that we must put a stop to,” the message continued.

One Child

A young girl, aged 10 who was rushed to the a children's hospital is among those who had died, police have confirmed.

One Israeli Citizen

An Israeli citizen was a fatality in the incident, according to reports referencing the Israeli foreign ministry.

Those Injured

From the 42 people taken to hospital, a significant number are still under care, with five in a critical state. Those hurt include two police officers who responded to the attack.

A casualty is a bystander who attempted to intervene to confront one of the gunmen. Described as a hero, he received bullet wounds but is in stable condition in hospital.

Arsen Ostrovsky

One of those wounded is Arsen Ostrovsky, a community leader. Reports indicate he was hurt and underwent treatment in hospital.

He wrote, he recounted the scene as an “horrific scene,” but also praised the actions of those who rushed to help. He said he believed it was a “miracle” he was alive.

Evan Zlatkis

Evan Zlatkis, a community director, was also injured in the shooting. He described he heard “a large number” of shots.

“Initially, I believed it was rubber bullets, but it’s gone into my own skin and into my leg,” he explained. “I was hit. I received first aid. I’m ok.”

Vickie Rivas
Vickie Rivas

Environmental scientist and writer passionate about sustainable development and renewable energy solutions.