Post by : Rameen Ariff

A tragic mass shooting at Australia’s famous Bondi Beach during a Hanukkah celebration has left the nation in shock, as details of the victims reveal stories of courage, faith, and heartbreaking loss. The attack took place on Sunday evening during an event organised to mark the Jewish festival of Hanukkah, turning a peaceful gathering into a scene of terror and chaos.

Police confirmed that at least 15 people were killed in the Bondi Beach shooting, while around 40 others were injured and taken to hospital. Among the injured were two police officers and four children. Sadly, one of the children later died from her injuries. Authorities said the attack was carried out by a father and son, and the victims ranged in age from just 10 years old to as old as 87. The main alleged gunman, a 50-year-old man, was shot dead by police at the scene.

Witnesses described moments of panic as gunfire erupted, with families running for safety and people desperately trying to protect loved ones. The shooting has raised serious concerns about public safety and hate-driven violence, as the event was specifically linked to a Jewish religious celebration.

Among the victims was Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a respected member of the Sydney Jewish community. At 41, he served as the assistant rabbi at Chabad Bondi, the organisation that hosted the Hanukkah event. British-born Schlanger had lived in Sydney for nearly two decades and was a devoted father of five, with his youngest child only a few months old. Friends and community members remembered him as a man of deep compassion who dedicated his life to helping others, including prisoners, elderly residents, and vulnerable families across the region. His sudden death has left his family and community devastated.

Another victim was Dan Elkayam, a French national who had travelled to the festival to celebrate. In his late twenties, Elkayam worked in Sydney providing technical support to an international media company. Educated in computer systems and engineering, he had previously lived in Paris and was described by those who knew him as talented and full of promise. His death has sent shockwaves through both the local and international community.

Ten-year-old Matilda, a primary school student, also lost her life in the shooting. Her family confirmed her death late Sunday night. Matilda was remembered as a bright, joyful child who brought happiness to everyone around her. She had previously studied at a Russian school in Sydney and was attending the festival with her family. Her death has deeply moved the public, highlighting the innocence lost in the violence.

Holocaust survivor Alex Kleytman, aged 87, was among those killed. He had attended the Hanukkah event with his children and grandchildren, making his death especially painful for the family. Having survived one of history’s darkest chapters, his life ended during a celebration meant to honour faith, survival, and hope.

Other victims included Reuven Morrison, a member of the Chabad community who divided his time between Melbourne and Sydney, and Rabbi Yaakov Levitan, who served as secretary of a major Jewish religious organisation in Sydney. Both men were known for their dedication to community service and religious life.

Tibor Weitzen, a husband and father, was also killed after bravely shielding his wife from gunfire. His wife survived the attack, but his act of courage cost him his life. His death has been described as a heartbreaking example of selfless love during unimaginable circumstances.

Australian authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the Bondi Beach shooting, while security has been increased at religious and public gatherings nationwide. Leaders across the country have expressed condolences to the victims’ families and have strongly condemned the violence.

As Sydney mourns, candles, flowers, and messages of solidarity have been placed near the site of the attack. The Bondi Beach shooting has left a lasting scar on the city, serving as a painful reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence and hatred. The victims, from a young child to a Holocaust survivor, are being remembered not only for how they died, but for the lives they lived and the love they shared.

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