Information Available Concerning the Those Lost of the Bondi Terror Attack

At least 16 lives perished and over 40 were hurt when gunmen opened fire at a Hanukkah event at Bondi Beach, an incident Australian authorities have called a terrorist attack.

In the latest update, authorities have stated the death toll remains at 16, which includes one of the suspected gunmen. Moreover, 42 people with injuries were transported to hospital.

The deceased have not yet been publicly named, but police believe their ages range from 10 and 87 years old.

Here are the individuals who are known so far.

Eli Schlanger

Originally from London rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was the first victim to be named.

Described as a father-of-five, he worked as the assistant rabbi at a local Jewish cultural centre. Family members and friends remembered him as “vivacious, energetic, full of life and a very kind and sociable person who was dedicated to assisting others”.

“How can a joyful rabbi who went to a beach to share joy and positivity, to make the world a better place, have his life ended in this way?” a relative remarked.

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

Alexander Kleytman

Alexander Kleytman also lost his life, as stated by his wife.

She described the moments before the attack, saying they had been standing together when the shooting erupted. “He shielded me because he wished to be near me,” she stated.

The couple were both survivors of the Holocaust, having experienced immense hardship in their youth. They had later immigrated to Australia from Eastern Europe.

Dan Elkayam

The French authorities have announced that French man Dan Elkayam is among the victims.

In a statement, the Foreign Minister expressed that France stood with his family and loved ones, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.

“This low act is a fresh and tragic example of a disgusting rise of antisemitic hatred that we must eradicate,” the statement continued.

One Child

A young girl, aged 10 who was taken to the Sydney Children’s Hospital succumbed to her injuries, authorities stated.

One Israeli Citizen

One victim from Israel was also killed during the attack, as per multiple sources citing the Israeli government.

Those Injured

Of the 42 people taken to hospitals, many are still under care, with a number in a critical state. The injured include two police officers who attended the scene.

A casualty is a member of the public who attempted to intervene to confront one of the gunmen. Hailed as a hero, he received bullet wounds but is recovering well in hospital.

Arsen Ostrovsky

One of those wounded is Arsen Ostrovsky, a public affairs professional. Reports indicate he was wounded and is receiving treatment in hospital.

In a message, he described the scene as an “utter carnage,” but also praised the response of those who rushed to help. He said he felt it was a “stroke of luck” he was alive.

Evan Zlatkis

Evan Zlatkis, a media director, was another casualty in the shooting. He described he heard “dozens and dozens” of gunshots.

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