Father and Son Behind Deadly Shooting at Bondi Beach Hanukkah Event, Killing 15
Authorities said an ISIS flag was also found in the suspects’ vehicle. According to Australian media reports, both attackers are believed to have pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group
By: i24 News; i24news.tv
At least 15 people were killed and dozens more injured in a targeted armed attack on a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach on Sunday, in what authorities have described as a terrorist act and one of the deadliest shootings in Australia’s history.
The attack occurred during “Hanukkah by the Sea,” a public event that drew nearly 2,000 people to Sydney’s iconic beachfront to light the first candle of the Jewish festival. Gunfire erupted shortly after the ceremony began, triggering panic as families and children fled the scene.
New South Wales Police Commissioner Malcolm Lanyon confirmed on Monday that the death toll had risen to 15 after two victims died in hospital. Fourteen people were pronounced dead at the scene.
A total of 42 people were taken to hospital, with 40 remaining admitted, including two police officers. Several victims are reported to be in critical condition.
Among those killed were Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a 41-year-old assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi and a father of five; Alex Kleytman, a Holocaust survivor; French national Daniel Elkayam; a 10-year-old girl named Matilda; and 78-year-old Tibor Weitzen.
New South Wales Health Minister Ryan Park said a 12-year-old child was also among the dead. The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that at least one Israeli citizen was killed, though the victim has not been publicly identified.
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