What We Know Regarding the Those Lost of the Bondi Terrorist Incident

At least 16 people lost their lives and in excess of 40 were hurt when gunmen opened fire at a Hanukah gathering at Bondi Beach, a tragedy Australian authorities have labeled a act of terrorism.

In the latest update, authorities have stated the number of fatalities is 16, encompassing one of the suspected gunmen. Moreover, 42 wounded individuals were taken to the hospital.

The deceased have not yet been formally identified, but investigators think their ages span between 10 and 87 years of age.

Below are the victims who have been named at this time.

Eli Schlanger

London-born clergyman Eli Schlanger, 41, was the first victim to be named.

Described as a father of five children, he worked as the assistant rabbi at a local Jewish cultural centre. Family members 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 joyful 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 family member said.

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

Alexander Kleytman

Alexander Kleytman was also confirmed among the deceased, according to his wife.

She told the moments leading up to the attack, stating they were standing when the gunfire began. “He shielded me because he wanted to stay near me,” she recalled.

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

Dan Elkayam

French authorities have announced that French man Dan Elkayam is among the victims.

Publicly, a senior official expressed that France shared the grief of his family and loved ones, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.

“This low act is a fresh and tragic example of a disgusting rise of hatred against Jews that we must put a stop to,” the message read.

One Child

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

One Israeli Citizen

A national of Israel was also killed in the incident, according to multiple sources citing the Israeli foreign ministry.

Those Injured

Of the 42 people transported to hospitals, many remain receiving treatment, with several in serious condition. Those hurt comprise two officers who responded to the attack.

A wounded man is a bystander who rushed to the scene to confront one of the gunmen. Called a local hero, he sustained 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.

In a message, he described the scene as an “horrific scene,” but also noted the actions of those who rushed to help. He stated he believed it was a “miracle” he was alive.

Evan Zlatkis

Evan Zlatkis, a community director, was also injured in the attack. He said 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 explained. “I’ve been shot myself. I received first aid. I’m ok.”