New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon confirmed that the harrowing mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney was carried out by a father and son. The older gunman, who was fatally shot by police at the scene, legally owned six firearms, all of which were recovered during the investigation.
Authorities also discovered and safely neutralized two rudimentary active devices at the scene, preventing further potential harm. Commissioner Lanyon expressed relief, stating, “I’m very glad those devices were not activated.”
As of Sunday evening, the police reported the victims ranged in age from 10 to 87 years old. Fourteen people died immediately at Bondi Beach, while two others—a 10-year-old girl and a 40-year-old man—later died in hospital. In addition, 42 individuals, including four children, sustained injuries and were taken to multiple Sydney hospitals.
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Five victims remain in critical condition, with several others reported to be in serious but stable condition. Among the wounded are two police officers—a constable and a probationary constable—both injured by gunfire and currently stable.
Among the deceased is British-born Rabbi Eli Schlanger, former assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. His family described him as a “joyful rabbi” whose life was dedicated to spreading happiness and light. The 41-year-old, father of five, recently celebrated the birth of his youngest child two months ago. Rabbi Schlanger’s cousin, Rabbi Zalman Lewis of Brighton, mourned his tragic loss: “How can a joyful rabbi who went to a beach to spread happiness and light have his life ended in this way?”
Heroism amidst tragedy emerged in the form of Ahmed al Ahmed, a 43-year-old Sydney father of two and fruit shop owner. He confronted and disarmed one of the gunmen, an act caught on social media where the armed attacker is seen retreating. Ahmed remains hospitalized with gunshot wounds to his arm and hand and is celebrated by his family and officials alike as a “100% hero.” New South Wales Premier Chris Minns personally praised him, acknowledging his bravery as a “genuine hero.”
The Bondi Beach shootings have profoundly impacted Sydney, leaving communities to grieve while honoring the courage and resilience shown during this dark day.