Gunmen Attack Families Celebrating Hanukkah at Bondi Beach

A tragic shooting occurred at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, on the first night of Hanukkah, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 individuals, including a 10-year-old girl and a Holocaust survivor. Two gunmen targeted families who had gathered to celebrate the Jewish festival, prompting authorities to classify the incident as a terrorist attack. This marks Australia’s most devastating mass shooting in nearly three decades.

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns confirmed that the victims ranged in age from 10 to 87 years old. Families and communities are mourning the loss of their loved ones while tributes pour in for the deceased.

Victims Remembered

Among the victims was Matilda, a 10-year-old girl whose aunt described her as a “very sweet, happy child, with a beautiful smile.” Matilda was enjoying the festivities with her family when the shooting began. She was critically injured and later succumbed to her wounds at the hospital. Her aunt expressed heartbreak over the tragedy, stating, “Kids are supposed to be happy. They should be playing on the beach, not thinking about bullets flying around.” Matilda’s former language teacher, Irina Goodhew, characterized her as a “bright, joyful, and spirited child who brought light to everyone around her.” A GoFundMe page has been established to support her family following this devastating loss.

Also among the deceased was Rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, who organized the “Chanukah by the Sea” event. Serving as the assistant rabbi at the Chabad of Bondi, he was known for his dedication to the Jewish community. His cousin, Rabbi Zalman Lewis, praised Schlanger’s commitment to his family and community, emphasizing the loss felt by his wife and five children, the youngest of whom was only born in October.

Alex Kleytman, a Holocaust survivor, died while attempting to protect his wife, Lариса, from gunfire. Originally from Ukraine, Kleytman is remembered for his bravery and leaves behind a family that includes two children and 11 grandchildren.

French national Dan Elkayam was also killed during the attack. He had recently moved to Australia and was in Sydney providing technical support to NBC Universal. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot confirmed his death and expressed France’s commitment to combating antisemitism and terrorism.

Additional Victims and Community Impact

Also lost in the shooting was Rabbi Yaakov Levitan, who served as secretary of the Sydney Beth Din. He was actively involved in Chabad operations, contributing significantly to the Jewish community’s welfare.

Reuven Morrison, a businessman and long-time resident of Melbourne, was another victim. Originally from the former Soviet Union, he had rediscovered his Jewish identity in Sydney and was known for his philanthropic efforts.

Former detective Peter Meagher, a beloved member of the Randwick Rugby Club, was working as a freelance photographer at the Hanukkah event. His club remembered him as a “much-loved figure and absolute legend” whose lengthy service to the community was deeply appreciated.

The impact of this shooting has reverberated throughout the Jewish community and beyond, prompting calls for increased security and support for those affected. The investigation continues as authorities work to understand the motives behind this heinous act and to provide answers to grieving families.

As tributes and support efforts grow, the community remains united in the face of this tragedy, honoring those lost while reaffirming their commitment to safety and solidarity.