Naveed Akram, the surviving suspect in Sunday's mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney, has been charged with 59 offenses, including 15 counts of murder and one of committing a terrorist act, according to New South Wales police.
Akram, 24, was critically injured during the incident, which targeted Australia's Jewish community at an event celebrating the first night of Hanukkah. His father, Sajid Akram, 50, was killed in an exchange of gunfire with the police.
This tragic event resulted in 15 fatalities and numerous injuries, marking it as the deadliest shooting in Australia since 1996.
Among the charges are 40 counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent to murder and one charge related to a public display of a prohibited terrorist organisation symbol. Akram had his first hearing from his hospital bedside as authorities continue the investigation.
As of Wednesday evening, 17 individuals remain hospitalized, with one in critical condition and others facing serious but stable situations.
Police have officially classified the attack as a terrorist incident, President Anthony Albanese suggested it may have been motivated by ideologies associated with the Islamic State.
In a statement, Lanyon noted the importance of ensuring Akram understood the proceedings before officially questioning him. Earlier reports revealed that he and his father traveled to the Philippines shortly before the incident.
Memorials for the victims have begun, with the community mourning the loss of diverse individuals, including two rabbis and a 10-year-old girl named Matilda.
Funerals for the victims are anticipated in the days to come, as the community continues to wrestle with this devastating attack.
