The Details Known Concerning the Victims of the Bondi Terror Attack
A minimum of 16 lives lost their lives and over 40 sustained injuries when assailants fired on a Hanukah event at Bondi Beach, an incident Australian authorities have labeled a act of terrorism.
According to the most recent information, authorities have announced the death toll stands at 16, including one of the alleged gunmen. Moreover, 42 injured people were admitted to the hospital.
Those who died have not yet been formally identified, but authorities state their ages are between 10 and 87 years of age.
Here are the individuals who are known to date.
Eli Schlanger
Originally from London clergyman Eli Schlanger, 41, was the first victim to be named.
Reportedly a father-of-five, he was the associate rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Family members and friends described him as “vivacious, energetic, full of life and a very warm outgoing person who loved to help people”.
“How is it possible that a joyful rabbi who went to a beach to share joy and positivity, to make the world a better place, meet his end in this way?” a relative remarked.
Schlanger and his wife celebrated the birth 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 events leading up to the shooting, saying they had been standing together when the gunfire started. “He pushed his body up because he wished to be near me,” she said.
The husband and wife were both Holocaust survivors, having endured immense hardship in their youth. They had later immigrated to Australia from Ukraine.
Dan Elkayam
The French authorities have announced that French man Dan Elkayam is among the dead.
In a statement, a senior official expressed 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 put a stop to,” the message continued.
One Child
A child who was taken to the Sydney Children’s Hospital succumbed to her injuries, authorities stated.
One Israeli Citizen
An Israeli citizen was also killed during the attack, according to reports citing the Israeli foreign ministry.
Those Injured
From the 42 people taken to hospital, a significant number are still under care, with five in critical condition. The injured include two police officers who responded to the attack.
A casualty is a member of the public who attempted to intervene to confront one of the gunmen. Hailed as a local hero, he received bullet wounds but is in stable condition in hospital.
Arsen Ostrovsky
One of those wounded is Arsen Ostrovsky, a public affairs professional. Sources state he was injured and is receiving 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 stated he felt it was a “miracle” he was alive.
Evan Zlatkis
Evan Zlatkis, a media director, was another casualty in the attack. He described he heard “dozens and dozens” of gunshots.
“I thought it was rubber bullets, but it penetrated my own skin and into my leg,” he stated. “I was hit. I received first aid. I’m ok.”