What We Know Regarding the Fatalities of the Bondi Shooting

No fewer than 16 lives perished and over 40 were wounded when assailants opened fire at a Hanukkah gathering at Bondi Beach, an incident Australian authorities have called a act of terrorism.

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

The deceased have not yet been formally identified, but police believe their ages range 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.

Described as 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 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 family member said.

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

Alexander Kleytman

Alexander Kleytman also lost his life, as stated by his wife.

She described the moments before the attack, stating they were standing when the shooting erupted. “He moved to protect me because he wished to be near me,” she stated.

The pair were both survivors of the Holocaust, having experienced unspeakable terror in their youth. They had later relocated to Australia from Eastern Europe.

Dan Elkayam

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

Officially, a senior official declared that France stood with his family and loved ones, 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 combat,” the message continued.

One Child

A 10-year-old girl who was taken to the Sydney Children’s Hospital has been confirmed among the fatalities, police have confirmed.

One Israeli Citizen

An Israeli citizen was among those killed during the attack, as per multiple sources citing the Israeli government.

Those Injured

Of the 42 people transported to hospital, a significant number are still receiving treatment, with several in serious condition. Those hurt comprise two police officers who attended the scene.

A wounded man is a member of the public who rushed to the scene to tackle one of the gunmen. Hailed as a hero, he received gunshot wounds but is in stable condition in hospital.

Arsen Ostrovsky

One of those wounded is Arsen Ostrovsky, a community leader. It has been reported he was injured and underwent treatment in hospital.

Communicating, he described the scene as an “absolute bloodbath,” but also noted the response of those who rushed to help. He stated he felt it was a “miracle” he was alive.

Evan Zlatkis

Evan Zlatkis, a media director, was another casualty in the shooting. He told reporters he heard “a large number” of gunshots.

“I thought it was rubber bullets, but it’s gone into my own skin and into my leg,” he stated. “I’ve been shot myself. They bandaged me up. I’m ok.”