Sunday night was meant to be a joyous celebration of Hanukkah at Bondi Beach, one of Sydney’s most iconic spots.
Instead, it turned into a scene of horror as two gunmen opened fire on the crowd.
By Monday morning, the death toll had tragically climbed to 16, including a 12-year-old girl who succumbed to her injuries in hospital.
Videos circulating on social media showed people screaming, running for cover, and lying injured on the grass at North Bondi.
The Attack Unfolds
Witnesses captured chilling footage of two men standing on a footbridge connecting Campbell Parade to the Bondi Pavilion, firing indiscriminately into the crowd.
The attackers targeted families attending the Chanukah by the Sea festival, a family-focused event celebrating the Jewish Festival of Lights.
People ran in all directions, desperate to escape the gunfire, leaving behind a scene of chaos and devastation.
Father and Son Behind the Attack
NSW Police confirmed that the two attackers were father and son.
Naveed Akram, 24, from Bonnyrigg, sustained critical injuries and remains in hospital under police guard.
His 50-year-old father, who was a licensed firearms holder, was shot dead by police at the scene.
Police recovered six firearms from the scene, all registered to the father, and raided two homes in Sydney’s south-west suburbs of Campsie and Bonnyrigg Heights, where the pair had been staying. Commissioner Mal Lanyon confirmed there was no third attacker.
Rising Death Toll and Injuries
The Bondi Beach massacre claimed 16 lives, including the child who died at Sydney Children’s Hospital in Randwick.
NSW Health Minister Ryan Park reported that forty people remain hospitalized, with five in critical condition and others in serious or stable conditions.
Among the deceased are a local rabbi, an Israeli citizen, and a French national.
The injuries have been described as “catastrophic,” with victims suffering extensive gunshot wounds to the head and torso.
First Victims Identified
Rabbi Eli Schlanger, head of the Chabad mission in Bondi, was tragically confirmed among the victims.
His cousin, Rabbi Zalman Lewis, shared the heartbreaking news on social media, describing Rabbi Schlanger as “an incredible guy” who leaves behind a wife, young children, and family.
Holocaust survivor Alex Kleytman also died in the attack, reportedly shielding his wife from the gunfire.
How the Attack Happened
Authorities say the gunmen arrived at Campbell Parade, exited their vehicle, and displayed a black ISIS-style flag over the car’s hood.
They then proceeded to the pedestrian footbridge and fired into Archer Park, where the festival was underway.
The attack has been officially declared a terrorist incident, enabling special powers for ASIO, the Australian Federal Police, and state authorities to investigate further.
Known to Authorities
ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess confirmed that one of the attackers was already on their radar, though not considered an immediate threat.
The agency is now reviewing the incident and searching for others who might be planning similar attacks.
The FBI is assisting Australian authorities with the investigation.
Community Response and Global Condolences
NSW Premier Chris Minns defended police efforts after criticism from eyewitnesses, praising their courage and urging the public not to jump to conclusions.
The international community also expressed sympathy: King Frederick and Queen Mary of Denmark extended their heartfelt condolences to the victims, the Jewish community, and the people of Australia.
Looking Ahead
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese indicated that additional funding to boost security for the Jewish community would be considered, following recommendations from the Special Envoy to Combat Anti-Semitism.
Police continue to maintain a strong presence at Bondi Beach, with Campbell Parade still closed as the investigation unfolds.
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