What We Know Concerning the Victims of the Bondi Beach Terrorist Incident

No fewer than 16 individuals were killed and in excess of 40 sustained injuries when attackers opened fire at a Hanukkah gathering at Bondi Beach, an incident Australian authorities have labeled a terrorist attack.

In the latest update, authorities have announced the number of fatalities is 16, which includes one of the alleged gunmen. Furthermore, 42 people with injuries were transported to medical facilities.

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

Here are the individuals who have been identified so far.

Eli Schlanger

Originally from London rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was the first to be publicly identified.

Reportedly a father-of-five, he served as the associate rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Family members and acquaintances described him as “vivacious, energetic, full of life and a very warm outgoing person who was dedicated to assisting others”.

“How can a joyful rabbi who went to a beach to spread happiness and light, 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 youngest child just a few months ago.

Alexander Kleytman

Alexander Kleytman also lost his life, according to his wife.

She recounted the events before the attack, explaining they had been standing together when the shooting erupted. “He shielded me because he wanted to stay near me,” she stated.

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

Dan Elkayam

French foreign ministry have announced that French national Dan Elkayam is among the dead.

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

“This despicable act is a new, tragic manifestation of a revolting outpouring of antisemitic hatred that we must combat,” the statement read.

One Child

A child who was rushed to the Sydney Children’s Hospital succumbed to her injuries, police have confirmed.

One Israeli Citizen

One victim from Israel was also killed during the attack, according to reports referencing the Israeli government.

Those Injured

Of the 42 people transported to hospital, many are still receiving treatment, with a number in a critical state. Those hurt comprise two police officers who responded to the attack.

A wounded man is a bystander who rushed to the scene to confront one of the gunmen. Described as a local hero, he received gunshot wounds but is recovering well in hospital.

Arsen Ostrovsky

One of those wounded is Arsen Ostrovsky, a community leader. Sources state he was wounded and is receiving treatment in hospital.

Communicating, he described the incident as an “absolute bloodbath,” but also praised the actions of those who came to assist. He said he believed it was a “miracle” he survived.

Evan Zlatkis

Evan Zlatkis, a community director, was also injured in the shooting. He described he heard “a large number” of gunshots.

“I thought it was something less lethal, but it penetrated my own skin and into my leg,” he stated. “I sustained a gunshot wound. They bandaged me up. I’m ok.”