What We Know Regarding the Victims of the Bondi Terrorist Incident

At least 16 lives perished and in excess of 40 sustained injuries when assailants opened fire at a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, an attack Australian police are describing as a act of terrorism.

In the latest update, authorities have confirmed the death toll is 16, which includes one of the suspected attackers. Additionally, 42 people with injuries were taken to hospital.

Those who died are yet to be formally identified, but authorities state their ages span between 10 and 87 years of age.

Below are the individuals who have been named to date.

Eli Schlanger

Originally from London rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was initially identified.

Reportedly a father-of-five, he worked as the associate rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Relatives and acquaintances spoke of him as “vivacious, energetic, full of life and a very kind and sociable person who was dedicated to assisting others”.

“How can a happy rabbi who went to a beach to spread happiness and light, to make the world a better place, meet his end 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 was also among those killed, as stated by his wife.

She told the moments leading up to the shooting, stating they had been standing together when the gunfire erupted. “He moved to protect me because he wished to be near me,” she stated.

The pair were both Holocaust survivors, having endured immense hardship in their youth. They had subsequently moved to Australia from Eastern Europe.

Dan Elkayam

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

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

“This low act is a new, tragic manifestation of a disgusting rise of hatred against Jews that we must eradicate,” the message read.

One Child

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

One Israeli Citizen

One victim from Israel was a fatality during the attack, according to multiple sources referencing the Israeli government.

Those Injured

From the 42 people transported to hospital, many are still receiving treatment, with a number in serious condition. The injured comprise two police officers who attended the scene.

A casualty is a member of the public who attempted to intervene to tackle one of the attackers. Described as a local hero, he sustained gunshot wounds but is recovering well in hospital.

Arsen Ostrovsky

Among the injured is Arsen Ostrovsky, a community leader. It has been reported he was hurt and is receiving treatment in hospital.

He wrote, he described the incident as an “horrific scene,” but also noted the actions of those who rushed to help. He stated he believed it was a “stroke of luck” he was alive.

Evan Zlatkis

Evan Zlatkis, a community director, was also injured in the shooting. He said he heard “a large number” of shots.

“I thought it was rubber bullets, but it’s gone into my own skin and into my leg,” he explained. “I was hit. They bandaged me up. I’m ok.”