What We Know Regarding the Fatalities of the Bondi Terrorist Incident

At least 16 people perished and in excess of 40 were wounded when attackers opened fire at a Hanukah celebration at Bondi Beach, an attack local police have labeled a terrorist attack.

According to the most recent information, authorities have announced the death toll stands at 16, encompassing one of the alleged gunmen. Additionally, 42 wounded individuals were transported to the hospital.

The deceased have not yet been officially identified, but police believe their ages span from 10 and 87 years of age.

Here are the individuals who are known to date.

Eli Schlanger

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

Known as a father-of-five, he was 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 can 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 relative remarked.

Schlanger and his wife celebrated the arrival of their youngest child in October.

Alexander Kleytman

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

She told the events leading up to the attack, saying they had been standing together when the gunfire began. “He shielded me because he wanted to stay near me,” she recalled.

The couple were both survivors of the Holocaust, having endured immense hardship in their youth. They had later moved to Australia from Ukraine.

Dan Elkayam

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

In a statement, a senior official said 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 hatred against Jews that we must combat,” the statement continued.

One Child

A young girl, aged 10 who was taken to the Sydney Children’s Hospital has been confirmed among the fatalities, according to police reports.

One Israeli Citizen

An Israeli citizen was also killed in the incident, as per multiple sources referencing the Israeli government.

Those Injured

From the 42 people taken to hospital, a significant number remain receiving treatment, with five in critical condition. The injured comprise two police officers who attended the scene.

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

Arsen Ostrovsky

Among the injured is Arsen Ostrovsky, a community leader. Reports indicate he was wounded and is receiving treatment in hospital.

Communicating, he described the incident as an “absolute bloodbath,” but also noted the response of those who rushed to help. He stated he believed it was a “miracle” he was alive.

Evan Zlatkis

Evan Zlatkis, a media director, was another casualty in the shooting. He said he listened to “a large number” of shots.

“Initially, I believed it was something less lethal, but it’s gone into my own skin and into my leg,” he explained. “I’ve been shot myself. I received first aid. I’m ok.”