A tragic shooting incident at Bondi Beach on Sunday has resulted in the deaths of at least 15 civilians who were gathered to celebrate the first night of the Jewish festival of Hanukkah. Among the victims were a 10-year-old girl known as Matilda and Rabbi Eli Schlanger, who was a key organizer of the event. The local community is in mourning as it grapples with the heartbreaking loss of innocent lives, including a Holocaust survivor and other beloved individuals.
Matilda, who was tragically shot, was remembered for her bright spirit and kindness by her former teacher, Irina Goodhew. The Harmony Russian School of Sydney, which Matilda attended, expressed profound sadness over her death while offering condolences to her family and friends.
Rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, affectionately known as the 'Bondi Rabbi', was integral to the local Chabad mission. His cousin confirmed his passing, calling him an incredible person and lamenting the loss of his family, which includes five young children.
Additionally, Alexander Kleytman, a Holocaust survivor who had migrated from Ukraine, also lost his life shielding his wife during the attack. His wife shared heartbreaking details of their last moments together, highlighting the tragedy that unfolded amidst their community’s celebration.
The French national Dan Elkayam and former police officer Peter Meagher were also confirmed among the victims. Elkayam, who worked as an IT analyst and was a passionate footballer, had recently moved to Australia. Meanwhile, Meagher, a beloved figure in the rugby community, was taking photos at the Hanukkah event when tragedy struck.
The incident has left the Jewish community in shock as they mourn the senseless loss of life during what should have been a joyous occasion.
Matilda, who was tragically shot, was remembered for her bright spirit and kindness by her former teacher, Irina Goodhew. The Harmony Russian School of Sydney, which Matilda attended, expressed profound sadness over her death while offering condolences to her family and friends.
Rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, affectionately known as the 'Bondi Rabbi', was integral to the local Chabad mission. His cousin confirmed his passing, calling him an incredible person and lamenting the loss of his family, which includes five young children.
Additionally, Alexander Kleytman, a Holocaust survivor who had migrated from Ukraine, also lost his life shielding his wife during the attack. His wife shared heartbreaking details of their last moments together, highlighting the tragedy that unfolded amidst their community’s celebration.
The French national Dan Elkayam and former police officer Peter Meagher were also confirmed among the victims. Elkayam, who worked as an IT analyst and was a passionate footballer, had recently moved to Australia. Meanwhile, Meagher, a beloved figure in the rugby community, was taking photos at the Hanukkah event when tragedy struck.
The incident has left the Jewish community in shock as they mourn the senseless loss of life during what should have been a joyous occasion.
