In brief
At least 15 individuals lost their lives in the horrific shooting at Bondi Beach, which occurred amid a Hanukkah celebration. Among the deceased were children, rabbis, and community leaders. This piece chronicles the lives of the victims, highlighting their contributions and the profound sorrow felt by their families and the wider community.
At least 15 people have been confirmed dead in Sunday's shooting attack at Bondi beach.
Many were attending an event to mark the first day of the Jewish festival of Hanukkah.
Authorities have confirmed that two rabbis, a Holocaust survivor, and a 10-year-old girl were among the victims. This is what we know about those identified so far:
Matilda, 10
Authorities confirmed that a 10-year-old girl, named by her family to local media as Matilda, was among the dead. Irina Goodhew, who organized a fundraiser for the girl's mother and said she was the child's former teacher, wrote: I knew her as a bright, joyful, and spirited child who brought light to everyone around her. The Harmony Russian School of Sydney also confirmed that she was one of its students. We are deeply saddened to share the news that a former student of our school has passed away in the hospital due to injuries sustained from a gunshot, the school wrote on Facebook.
Rabbi Eli Schlanger
Known as the Bondi Rabbi, Eli Schlanger, 41, was one of the key organizers of Sunday's event. He was head of the local Chabad mission, an international Hasidic Jewish organization based in Brooklyn. His death was confirmed by his cousin, Rabbi Zalman Lewis.
Dan Elkayam
The death of French national Dan Elkayam was confirmed by France's Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot. He worked as an IT analyst for NBCUniversal and was a keen footballer, a well-loved member of Rockdale Ilinden Football Club.
Alexander Kleytman
A Holocaust survivor, Kleytman died while attempting to shield his wife from the gunman. He leaves behind two children and 11 grandchildren.
Boris and Sofia Gurman
The couple was married for 34 years and confirmed deceased after Mr. Gurman heroically attempted to disarm the attacker.
Peter Meagher
A former police officer and beloved figure in his local rugby club, Peter was shot while capturing moments of the event.
Reuven Morrison
Migrated from the Soviet Union, Reuven was known for his charitable contributions, supporting local Jewish causes.
Rabbi Yaakov Levitan
Described as a popular coordinator for Chabad's Sydney activities.
Tibor Weitzen
78 years old, Tibor was killed while trying to protect a family member.
Marika Pogany
At 82, she was known for her community involvement and was remembered by former Slovakian President Čaputová.
Edith Brutman
The vice-president of B'nai B'rith in New South Wales, Edith was acknowledged for her fervent advocacy against prejudice.
