What We Know Concerning the Victims of the Bondi Shooting

At least 16 lives were killed and over 40 sustained injuries when attackers shot at a Hanukah gathering at Bondi Beach, an incident Australian authorities are describing as a act of terrorism.

As of the newest reports, authorities have stated the number of fatalities is 16, encompassing one of the suspected gunmen. Additionally, 42 people with injuries were admitted to the hospital.

Those who died are yet to be officially identified, but authorities state their ages range from 10 and 87 years old.

Here are the individuals who have been identified at this time.

Eli Schlanger

Originally from London rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was initially identified.

Known as a father-of-five, he served as the associate rabbi at a local Jewish cultural centre. Relatives and acquaintances spoke of him as “vivacious, energetic, full of life and a very warm outgoing person who loved to help people”.

“How is it possible that a happy rabbi who went to a beach to spread happiness and light, to make the world a better place, have his life ended in this way?” a family member asked.

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

Alexander Kleytman

Alexander Kleytman was also confirmed among the deceased, as stated by his wife.

She described the moments leading up to the attack, explaining they were standing when the shooting started. “He moved to protect me because he wished to be near me,” she recalled.

The pair were both survivors of the Holocaust, having faced unspeakable terror in their childhood. They had subsequently moved to Australia from Ukraine.

Dan Elkayam

French authorities have confirmed that French national Dan Elkayam is a casualty.

Officially, the Foreign Minister expressed that France shared the grief of his family and loved ones, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.

“This despicable act is a new, tragic manifestation of a disgusting rise of antisemitic hatred that we must put a stop to,” the message continued.

One Child

A child who was rushed to the a children's hospital succumbed to her injuries, authorities stated.

One Israeli Citizen

One victim from Israel was among those killed during the attack, as per reports citing the Israeli government.

Those Injured

From the 42 people taken to hospitals, many are still receiving treatment, with several in serious condition. The injured comprise two police officers who responded to the attack.

One of the injured is a member of the public who rushed to the scene to tackle one of the gunmen. Hailed as a hero, he sustained gunshot wounds but is expected to recover in hospital.

Arsen Ostrovsky

One of those wounded is Arsen Ostrovsky, a human rights lawyer. It has been reported he was injured and underwent treatment in hospital.

Communicating, he recounted the scene as an “utter carnage,” but also praised the response 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 listened to “a large number” of shots.

“I thought it was something less lethal, but it’s gone into my own skin and into my leg,” he explained. “I’ve been shot myself. They bandaged me up. I’m ok.”