Information Available About the Victims of the Bondi Shooting

No fewer than 16 people perished and in excess of 40 sustained injuries when gunmen opened fire at a Hanukah gathering at Bondi Beach, an attack local police have called a terrorist attack.

As of the newest reports, officials have announced the death toll remains at 16, which includes one of the alleged attackers. Moreover, 42 people with injuries were transported to medical facilities.

The deceased have not yet been officially identified, but authorities state their ages range from 10 and 87 years old.

Below are the victims who have been named at this time.

Eli Schlanger

Originally from London clergyman Eli Schlanger, 41, was initially identified.

Reportedly a father of five children, he worked as the associate rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Relatives and acquaintances remembered him as “vivacious, energetic, full of life and a very kind and sociable person who was dedicated to assisting others”.

“How is it possible that a joyful rabbi who went to a beach to spread happiness and light, to make the world a better place, have his life ended in this way?” a family member asked.

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

Alexander Kleytman

Alexander Kleytman also lost his life, according to his wife.

She recounted the events before the attack, stating they were standing when the gunfire started. “He pushed his body up because he wished to be near me,” she stated.

The husband and wife were both Holocaust survivors, having endured unspeakable terror in their youth. They had later immigrated to Australia from Eastern Europe.

Dan Elkayam

The French foreign ministry have announced that French man Dan Elkayam is among the dead.

In a statement, a senior official declared that France shared the grief of his family, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.

“This despicable act is a new, tragic manifestation of a disgusting rise of antisemitic hatred that we must put a stop to,” the message read.

One Child

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

One Israeli Citizen

An Israeli citizen was a fatality during the attack, as per multiple sources citing the Israeli foreign ministry.

Those Injured

Of the 42 people transported to hospital, many remain receiving treatment, with five in a critical state. Those hurt comprise two officers who responded to the attack.

A casualty is a member of the public who rushed to the scene to confront one of the gunmen. Hailed as a hero, he sustained gunshot wounds but is expected to recover in hospital.

Arsen Ostrovsky

One of those wounded is Arsen Ostrovsky, a public affairs professional. Sources state he was wounded and is receiving treatment in hospital.

Communicating, he recounted the scene as an “horrific scene,” but also praised the actions of those who came to assist. He said he felt it was a “miracle” he survived.

Evan Zlatkis

Evan Zlatkis, a media director, was another casualty in the shooting. He told reporters he listened to “dozens and dozens” of shots.

“I thought it was something less lethal, but it penetrated my own skin and into my leg,” he explained. “I was hit. They bandaged me up. I’m ok.”

Jennifer Murphy DVM
Jennifer Murphy DVM

Sustainable architect and writer passionate about eco-friendly construction and innovative dome designs.