Credited from: REUTERS
The mass shooting at Bondi Beach during a Jewish Hanukkah celebration has left a community reeling, with 15 victims confirmed dead, including a rabbi, a Holocaust survivor, and a 10-year-old girl. Reports indicate that up to 40 individuals were hospitalized with injuries related to the shooting, which police say was carried out by a father and son duo, with the ages of victims ranging from 10 to 87. The suspected gunman was 50 years old and was killed by police at the scene, according to Channel News Asia, Reuters, and Al Jazeera.
Rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, served as the assistant rabbi at Chabad Bondi and was described as a man devoted to his community. He had recently welcomed his fifth child. Friends highlighted his kindness and service to marginalized individuals in the community, while his brother-in-law noted that the family was "broken" after the tragedy. This sentiment was echoed by the community, mourning the loss of a man who exemplified compassion and generosity, according to Channel News Asia and Reuters.
Another victim, Peter Meagher, a retired policeman and well-known rugby volunteer, was tragically killed while working as a freelance photographer at the event. Described as a "legend" of the Randwick Rugby Club, his passing is seen as an ironic twist of fate, as he had dedicated years to public safety before losing his life during what should have been a joyful occasion, according to Channel News Asia and Reuters.
Matilda, a 10-year-old girl who had recently attended Harmony Russian School, was also among the deceased. Her aunt confirmed the news, describing her as a "bright, joyful, and spirited child who brought light to those around her." The loss of such a young life has elicited profound grief within the local community, underscoring the tragic nature of the event, as reported by Reuters and Al Jazeera.
The event also claimed the life of Dan Elkayam, a French national who was confirmed dead by French President Emmanuel Macron. Elkayam had recently moved to Australia for work with NBC Universal and was known as a talented soccer player within the Rockdale Ilinden Football Club. His untimely death adds another layer to the somber aftermath of the shooting, according to Channel News Asia and Reuters.
Holocaust survivor Alex Kleytman, aged 87, attended the festival with his wife and family. His life story includes early hardships that did not deter him from pursuing a hopeful future in Australia. The tragedy of this attack resonates deeply as the community reflects on the resilience of individuals like Kleytman who survived unimaginable circumstances only to lose their lives during what should have been a celebration, according to Reuters and Al Jazeera.