Deadly Bondi Beach Attack: Victims Identified as Police Continue Investigation
Australian police have confirmed that a 10-year-old girl was among the 15 people killed in the deadly attack at Bondi Beach. The victims’ ages range from 10 to 87 years, making it one of the most tragic incidents in recent Australian history.
Authorities said that two rabbis and a Holocaust survivor were also among those who lost their lives. The attack took place during a Hanukkah gathering, shocking communities both in Australia and overseas.
The family of British-born Rabbi Eli Schlanger, aged 41, confirmed to media outlets that he was among the victims. Rabbi Schlanger had played a key role in organising the event, according to Jewish organisation Chabad. His cousin described him as energetic, warm-hearted and always willing to help others.
Another victim was Rabbi Yaakov Levitan, known in Sydney’s Jewish community for coordinating various religious and social activities. Chabad also confirmed that Holocaust survivor Alexander Kleytman was killed while attempting to protect his wife during the attack.
Reports from Israeli media state that an Israeli citizen was also among the deceased, while French national Dan Elkayam has been identified as another victim.
Injuries and Hospitalisation
Health officials said 42 people were taken to hospital following the incident. At least 24 victims are currently being treated in hospitals across Sydney, with three in critical condition. Four injured children were transferred to Sydney Children’s Hospital for specialised care.
Two police officers were also shot during the incident and remain hospitalised in serious but stable condition. One of the officers has been identified as Constable Scott Dyson, who has served with the Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command for the past 18 months.
What Authorities Say About the Suspects
Police allege the attack was carried out by a father and son, identified as Sajid Akram, 50, and Naveed Akram, 24. According to investigators, Sajid held a valid recreational hunting licence and was legally registered to possess multiple firearms. Police believe six weapons linked to him were used in the attack.
Officials said Sajid arrived in Australia in 1998 on a student visa, later transitioning to permanent residency. His son, Naveed, is an Australian-born citizen and had previously come to the attention of authorities in 2019, though he was not assessed as an immediate threat at the time.
Media reports suggest the younger suspect had links to extremist individuals, though officials say investigations into these claims are still ongoing. Police also confirmed the pair travelled to the Philippines in November, and authorities are examining the purpose of that trip.
Political and International Reaction
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the government will push for stricter gun laws at an upcoming national cabinet meeting. Proposed measures include limits on the number of firearms an individual can own and more frequent licence reviews.
Leaders from around the world condemned the attack. Israeli President Isaac Herzog called it a brutal antisemitic act, while King Charles III said he was deeply saddened by the violence. US officials also expressed solidarity with Australia following the incident.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns encouraged the public to continue paying respects at memorial sites and praised the overwhelming response to blood donation appeals across the state.