What We Know Concerning the Fatalities of the Bondi Terror Attack

At least 16 lives perished and more than 40 sustained injuries when gunmen opened fire at a Hanukah gathering at Bondi Beach, an attack Australian authorities have labeled a act of terrorism.

In the latest update, officials have stated the death toll remains at 16, encompassing one of the alleged gunmen. Additionally, 42 wounded individuals were taken to hospital.

Those who died are still awaiting formally identified, but police believe their ages span between 10 and 87 years old.

Below are the victims who have been named so far.

Eli Schlanger

Originally from London rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was initially identified.

Reportedly a father-of-five, he was the assistant rabbi at a local Jewish cultural centre. Family members and friends spoke of him as “lively, dynamic, and vibrant 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 share joy and positivity, to make the world a better place, have his life ended in this way?” a relative asked.

Schlanger and his wife had recently celebrated the birth of their youngest child just a few months ago.

Alexander Kleytman

Alexander Kleytman also lost his life, as stated by his wife.

She recounted the moments before the attack, stating they were standing when the gunfire began. “He shielded me because he wanted to stay near me,” she said.

The couple were both survivors of the Holocaust, having endured immense hardship in their childhood. They had subsequently relocated to Australia from Eastern Europe.

Dan Elkayam

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

Publicly, a senior official said that France mourned with his family and loved ones, 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 eradicate,” the message continued.

One Child

A child who was taken to the Sydney Children’s Hospital succumbed to her injuries, police have confirmed.

One Israeli Citizen

One victim from Israel was also killed during the attack, according to reports citing the Israeli government.

Those Injured

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

One of the injured is a bystander who rushed to the scene to confront one of the gunmen. Called a hero, he received gunshot wounds but is recovering well in hospital.

Arsen Ostrovsky

One of those wounded is Arsen Ostrovsky, a public affairs professional. It has been reported he was hurt and underwent treatment in hospital.

In a message, he recounted the scene as an “absolute bloodbath,” but also praised the response of those who came to assist. He said he believed it was a “stroke of luck” he survived.

Evan Zlatkis

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

“I thought it was something less lethal, but it penetrated my own skin and into my leg,” he said. “I was hit. I received first aid. I’m ok.”