Tragedy struck Sydney’s Bondi Beach on Sunday as a violent shooting incident claimed the lives of 12 people, including the gunman, during a Hanukkah celebration. The attack occurred near a “Chanukah by the Sea” event attended by members of the Jewish community to mark the festival’s opening night.
Videos circulating online appear to show two individuals in dark clothing firing rifles from a pedestrian overpass connecting Campbell Parade to the Bondi Pavilion, targeting the festive gathering.
Among the deceased is Rabbi Eli Schlanger, an assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi, a devoted family man and community leader, survived by his wife and four children.
Law enforcement engaged the suspects. One assailant was killed by police at the scene, while a second individual was apprehended and is in critical condition. Media outlets have identified a possible suspect as Naveed Akram, a 24-year-old bricklayer of Pakistani heritage based in Sydney, who may have recently lost employment.
A civilian, Ahmed Al Ahmed, a 43-year-old fruit shop owner and father of two, displayed immense bravery by disarming one of the gunmen. He sustained two gunshot wounds to his arm but is in stable condition and awaiting surgery.
Global leaders have voiced their dismay. Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India has vehemently condemned the terrorist attack and extended his deepest sympathies to the victims’ families and the people of Australia.