Financial analyst with over a decade of experience in commodity markets, specializing in gold and precious metals investments.
No fewer than 16 individuals were killed and over 40 were hurt when gunmen shot at a Hanukah celebration at Bondi Beach, an attack local police are describing as a act of terrorism.
In the latest update, officials have stated the death toll remains at 16, including one of the alleged gunmen. Moreover, 42 people with injuries were admitted to hospital.
The victims have not yet been publicly named, but police believe their ages span between 10 and 87 years old.
Below are the individuals who have been named so far.
Originally from London clergyman Eli Schlanger, 41, was initially identified.
Described as a father-of-five, he served as the associate rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Family members and acquaintances spoke of him as “lively, dynamic, and vibrant and a very kind and sociable 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 remarked.
Schlanger and his wife had recently celebrated the arrival of their newest son just a few months ago.
Alexander Kleytman also lost his life, according to his wife.
She recounted the events before the attack, stating they were standing when the shooting began. “He moved to protect me because he wanted to stay near me,” she said.
The couple were both Holocaust survivors, having experienced unspeakable terror in their childhood. They had subsequently moved to Australia from Eastern Europe.
French foreign ministry have announced that French man Dan Elkayam is among the dead.
Officially, the Foreign Minister said that France shared the grief of his family and loved ones, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.
“This low act is a fresh and tragic example of a revolting outpouring of hatred against Jews that we must eradicate,” the statement continued.
A 10-year-old girl who was taken to the a children's hospital has been confirmed among the fatalities, according to police reports.
A national of Israel was among those killed during the attack, according to multiple sources referencing the Israeli foreign ministry.
Of the 42 people transported to hospitals, many are still under care, with a number in a critical state. Those hurt comprise two police officers who responded to the attack.
A wounded man is a member of the public who rushed to the scene to tackle one of the gunmen. Described as a hero, he received gunshot wounds but is recovering well in hospital.
Among the injured is Arsen Ostrovsky, a public affairs professional. Reports indicate he was injured and is receiving treatment in hospital.
Communicating, he recounted the scene as an “utter carnage,” but also praised the actions of those who rushed to help. He said he felt it was a “stroke of luck” he was alive.
Evan Zlatkis, a media director, was also injured in the shooting. 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 explained. “I’ve been shot myself. I received first aid. I’m ok.”
Financial analyst with over a decade of experience in commodity markets, specializing in gold and precious metals investments.