A tragic shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney on December 10, 2023, claimed the lives of at least 15 people, including a 10-year-old girl, a Holocaust survivor, and a young French national. The attack occurred during a celebration marking the first night of Hanukkah when two gunmen opened fire on families gathered for the event. Authorities have classified the incident as a terrorist attack, making it one of the most deadly mass shootings in Australia in nearly three decades.
The victims, aged between 10 and 87 years old, have not yet been officially identified, but families and friends are paying heartfelt tributes to those lost. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns described the shooting as a profound tragedy for the community.
Victims Remembered
Among the deceased was Matilda, a 10-year-old girl whose aunt described her as a “very sweet, happy child, with a beautiful smile.” Matilda was attending the festivities with her parents and younger sister when the shooting began. Despite being rushed to the hospital, doctors were unable to save her life. Her aunt, Lina, lamented, “Kids are supposed to be happy. They should be playing on the beach, not thinking about bullets flying around.” Matilda had recently moved to Australia from Ukraine with her family, who cherished their time at the beach and local parks.
Another victim, Rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was instrumental in organizing the “Chanukah by the Sea” event. Serving as the assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi, he was dedicated to fostering Jewish community life in the area. A statement from Chabad highlighted his commitment, noting that he had served as a rabbi and chaplain for 18 years. His cousin, Rabbi Zalman Lewis, expressed his grief on social media, emphasizing Schlanger’s role as a devoted family man and community leader.
The shooting also claimed the life of Alex Kleytman, a Holocaust survivor who reportedly died while trying to protect his wife, Lарisa, from gunfire. Kleytman, originally from Ukraine, is survived by his wife, two children, and 11 grandchildren. His story reflects the resilience and sacrifice that marked his life.
Dan Elkayam, a French national and football enthusiast, was attending the celebration as well. According to French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, Elkayam had recently moved to Australia and was involved in the local Jewish community. He played for the Rockdale Ilinden FC and was described as an extremely talented and popular figure. His club is currently providing support to his girlfriend following this tragic loss.
A Community in Mourning
Other notable victims included Rabbi Yaakov Levitan, the secretary of the Sydney Beth Din, and Reuven Morrison, a businessman and long-time resident of Melbourne. Morrison had rediscovered his Jewish identity in Sydney and was known for his charitable contributions. Peter Meagher, a former detective and rugby club member, also lost his life in the attack. Meagher, who had dedicated nearly 40 years to the police force, was working as a freelance photographer at the event.
The attack has sent shockwaves throughout Australia and beyond, with expressions of condolence pouring in from various leaders and organizations. The Jewish community, in particular, has been deeply affected, grappling with the implications of such violence during a holiday meant for celebration and reflection.
In response to the attack, New South Wales authorities are investigating the incident as a terrorist act, while community leaders call for increased vigilance against antisemitism and violence. The impact of this tragedy will resonate far beyond the immediate community, as it raises critical issues about safety and the ongoing struggle against hate.
As families mourn their loved ones, the outpouring of support and remembrance highlights not only the individual lives lost but also the collective grief of a community that came together to celebrate but instead faced unimaginable horror.
