Bondi Beach shooting: Twelve dead in attack on Hanukkah event
SYDNEY — At least 12 people have been killed and dozens injured following a mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, during a Hanukkah celebration on Sunday evening, authorities confirmed.
The attack unfolded during a crowded community event known as Chanukah by the Sea, which had drawn hundreds of families and visitors to the popular beachfront area. Police said gunfire erupted near Campbell Parade shortly before sunset, triggering panic as people fled across the sand and into nearby streets.
Chaos at crowded beachside gathering
Witnesses described scenes of chaos as multiple shots rang out, sending attendees scrambling for safety. Parents were seen shielding children, while others hid behind vehicles, beach structures and nearby buildings. Emergency calls flooded dispatch centres within minutes.
Police, ambulance crews and air rescue units were rapidly deployed, with officers establishing an exclusion zone and urging the public to avoid the area. Bondi Beach was placed into lockdown as authorities assessed the threat.
Casualties and police response
By late evening, officials confirmed that 12 people had died in the shooting. At least 29 others were injured, several of them critically, and were transported to hospitals across Sydney. Among the wounded were two police officers responding to the incident.
Law enforcement engaged with the attackers at the scene. One suspected gunman was shot dead, while another was seriously wounded and taken into custody. Police said they were investigating whether a third suspect may have been involved.
Authorities also reported locating explosive devices inside a vehicle believed to be linked to the suspects. Specialist bomb disposal units were called in as a precaution.
Acts of bravery
Amid the violence, witnesses reported acts of extraordinary courage. Video footage circulating online showed a civilian confronting one of the attackers and managing to disarm him before police intervened. The man was injured during the struggle but was credited by witnesses with potentially preventing further loss of life.
Emergency responders praised bystanders who provided first aid to the wounded before paramedics arrived.
Government condemnation
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the attack, calling it “a shocking and distressing act of violence” and expressing condolences to the families of the victims. He said federal authorities were working closely with New South Wales officials and pledged full support for the investigation.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns described the shooting as deeply traumatic and urged the public to remain calm while following police instructions as the situation continued to unfold.
Community impact
Jewish community leaders in Sydney expressed grief and outrage, describing the shooting as a targeted attack on a peaceful religious celebration. The event marked the first night of Hanukkah, a holiday centered on faith, resilience and light.
Community members gathered later in the evening for vigils, lighting candles and laying flowers near police barricades.
Rare violence in Australia
Mass shootings are extremely rare in Australia due to strict gun control laws introduced following the 1996 Port Arthur massacre. Officials described the Bondi Beach attack as one of the deadliest acts of mass violence in the country’s recent history.
The incident comes amid growing concern over hate-based violence and antisemitic incidents nationwide. While authorities have not yet confirmed a motive, counter-terrorism units are assisting with the investigation.
Ongoing investigation
Police have sealed off a large area surrounding Bondi Beach as forensic teams continue their work. Authorities said the immediate threat has been neutralised but warned the investigation remains active.
Residents and visitors in Sydney’s eastern suburbs have been advised to avoid the area and expect significant disruptions as emergency services continue operations overnight.
This is a developing story, and further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
