The Details Known Concerning the Fatalities of the Bondi Terrorist Incident

A minimum of 16 people lost their lives and in excess of 40 were wounded when attackers opened fire at a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, a tragedy local authorities are describing as a terrorist attack.

According to the most recent information, authorities have confirmed the death toll remains at 16, encompassing one of the suspected attackers. Additionally, 42 wounded individuals were transported to the hospital.

The deceased have not yet been formally identified, but authorities state their ages range between 10 and 87 years old.

Here are the victims who have been identified so far.

Eli Schlanger

London-born clergyman Eli Schlanger, 41, was initially identified.

Known as a father of five children, he served as the associate rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Relatives and acquaintances spoke of him as “lively, dynamic, and vibrant and a very kind and sociable person who was dedicated to assisting others”.

“How can a joyful 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 relative asked.

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

Alexander Kleytman

Alexander Kleytman was also among those killed, as stated by his wife.

She recounted the events leading up to the shooting, stating they had been standing together when the gunfire started. “He shielded me because he wished to be near me,” she recalled.

The pair were both Holocaust survivors, having faced unspeakable terror in their youth. They had subsequently immigrated to Australia from Ukraine.

Dan Elkayam

The French foreign ministry have confirmed that French man Dan Elkayam is among the victims.

Publicly, a senior official expressed that France mourned with his family, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.

“This cowardly attack 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 10-year-old girl 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, according to reports referencing the Israeli foreign ministry.

Those Injured

From the 42 people transported to hospitals, many remain under care, with a number in a critical state. Those hurt include two officers who attended the scene.

A casualty is a member of the public who attempted to intervene to confront one of the gunmen. Hailed as a hero, he received gunshot wounds but is expected to recover in hospital.

Arsen Ostrovsky

Among the injured is Arsen Ostrovsky, a human rights lawyer. Reports indicate he was hurt and underwent treatment in hospital.

In a message, he recounted the scene as an “absolute bloodbath,” but also noted the actions of those who came to assist. He said he felt it was a “miracle” he was alive.

Evan Zlatkis

Evan Zlatkis, a community director, was also injured in the shooting. He said he heard “dozens and dozens” of gunshots.

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