What We Know About the Victims of the Bondi Beach Terror Attack

No fewer than 16 lives were killed and over 40 were wounded when gunmen opened fire at a Hanukah event at Bondi Beach, an incident local police have labeled a terrorist attack.

In the latest update, officials have confirmed the death toll is 16, which includes one of the alleged gunmen. Moreover, 42 injured people were transported to hospital.

The victims have not yet been officially identified, but police believe their ages span between 10 and 87 years old.

Below are the victims who have been identified at this time.

Eli Schlanger

London-born rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was the first to be publicly identified.

Reportedly a father of five children, he served as the associate rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Family members and acquaintances described him as “vivacious, energetic, full of life and a very warm outgoing person who loved to help people”.

“How can a joyful 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 family member asked.

Schlanger and his wife celebrated the arrival of their newest son in October.

Alexander Kleytman

Alexander Kleytman was also among those killed, as stated by his wife.

She recounted the moments leading up to the attack, saying they had been standing together when the gunfire started. “He pushed his body up because he wished to be near me,” she said.

The couple were both survivors of the Holocaust, having faced immense hardship in their youth. They had later immigrated to Australia from Eastern Europe.

Dan Elkayam

French foreign ministry have confirmed that French man Dan Elkayam is among the victims.

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

“This despicable act is a new, tragic manifestation of a revolting outpouring of hatred against Jews that we must put a stop to,” the message read.

One Child

A young girl, aged 10 who was rushed to the a children's hospital is among those who had died, according to police reports.

One Israeli Citizen

One victim from Israel was also killed during the attack, as per reports referencing the Israeli foreign ministry.

Those Injured

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

A wounded man is a bystander who attempted to intervene to confront one of the attackers. Hailed as a local hero, he received gunshot wounds but is expected to recover in hospital.

Arsen Ostrovsky

Among the injured is Arsen Ostrovsky, a public affairs professional. It has been reported he was injured and is receiving treatment in hospital.

Communicating, he recounted the scene as an “absolute bloodbath,” 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 heard “dozens and dozens” 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. I received first aid. I’m ok.”