What We Know Concerning the Fatalities of the Bondi Beach Terror Attack

At least 16 lives perished and more than 40 sustained injuries when attackers opened fire at a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, an attack local police are describing as a terrorist attack.

In the latest update, officials have stated the number of fatalities is 16, including one of the alleged attackers. Furthermore, 42 people with injuries were transported to the hospital.

The victims have not yet been formally identified, but police believe their ages are between 10 and 87 years of age.

Listed are the individuals who are known so far.

Eli Schlanger

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

Known as a father of five children, he served as the assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Family members and acquaintances described him as “lively, dynamic, and vibrant 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 family member remarked.

Schlanger and his wife celebrated the arrival of their youngest child just a few months ago.

Alexander Kleytman

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

She described the moments before the attack, explaining they were standing 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 faced unspeakable terror in their youth. They had later relocated to Australia from Ukraine.

Dan Elkayam

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

Publicly, the Foreign Minister declared that France mourned with his family, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.

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

One Child

A young girl, aged 10 who was taken to the a children's hospital has been confirmed among the fatalities, according to police reports.

One Israeli Citizen

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

Those Injured

Of the 42 people transported to hospital, many remain under care, with a number in critical condition. Those hurt include two police officers who responded to the attack.

A casualty is a bystander who attempted to intervene to confront one of the attackers. Called a local hero, he received gunshot wounds but is recovering well in hospital.

Arsen Ostrovsky

Among the injured is Arsen Ostrovsky, a public affairs professional. Reports indicate he was hurt and is receiving treatment in hospital.

He wrote, he described the incident as an “horrific scene,” but also noted the response of those who came to assist. He said he felt it was a “miracle” he survived.

Evan Zlatkis

Evan Zlatkis, a media director, was also injured in the attack. He said he listened to “dozens and dozens” of shots.

“Initially, I believed it was rubber bullets, but it’s gone into my own skin and into my leg,” he stated. “I was hit. I received first aid. I’m ok.”