Sydney police have confirmed that 16 people, including a child, were killed and dozens injured after gunmen opened fire at a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach on Sunday evening. Authorities say the attackers were a father and son, aged 50 and 24, with the older man shot dead by police while the younger remains in critical condition in hospital.
The shooting occurred around 6.45pm local time during a community event near the children’s playground, intended to celebrate the holiday with music, games, and festive activities. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as attendees ran for cover, with some lifeguards carrying the injured on surfboards to safety.
Among the victims is British-born Rabbi Eli Schlanger, an assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. A 10-year-old girl also died, while five other victims remain in critical condition. In total, 42 people were taken to hospital following the attack, including four children.
New South Wales police commissioner Mal Lanyon said six firearms licensed to the 50-year-old gunman were found, alongside six more at the scene. Two improvised explosive devices were discovered and safely neutralised. Authorities are not seeking any further suspects.
A bystander, 43-year-old shop owner Ahmed al Ahmed, was hailed a hero for tackling and disarming one of the attackers, sustaining two gunshot wounds in the process.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the attack an act of antisemitic terrorism, condemning the violence and calling for national unity. Flags were lowered to half-mast across the country. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns defended police actions, saying officers’ response saved lives.
International leaders, including US officials and Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, expressed condolences and commended acts of bravery during the attack.
Police continue to investigate the motive behind the shooting, with forensic teams examining the scene and the gunmen’s residences.
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