The “massive” and “complex” investigation into the Bondi Beach terrorist attack yesterday continues as police try to piece together the shooting that has shocked the world. Source: ABC News.
Sixteen people were killed, including one of two gunmen, in the mass shooting yesterday evening targeting Jewish patrons attending a Hanukkah event, an eight-day festival of lights.
An additional 38 people were injured, including a child and two police officers, who are in a serious condition and underwent surgery overnight.
NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said this morning the fatalities from the attack rose from 12 to 16, including a child, overnight.
“We had four children transferred to Sydney Children’s Hospital,” he said
“We had about 38 people injured and we have had about 100 ambulance personnel, specialist units, general duties paramedics, here during the response last night.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described it as an “act of evil antisemitism … that has struck the heart of our nation”.
“At this dark moment for our nation, our police and security agencies are working to determine anyone associated with this outrage,” he said.
“The evil that was unleashed at Bondi Beach today is beyond comprehension, and the trauma and loss that families are dealing with tonight is beyond anyone’s worst nightmare.”
The shooting began about 6.45pm during a Chanukah by the Sea event near a children’s playground around Bondi Park.
Footage showed two men opening fire from a bridge into the crowd.
One of those confirmed dead is Rabbi Eli Schlanger, who had been the head of the Chabad mission in Bondi for the past 18 years.
The second gunman is in police custody in a critical condition, and police are still investigating whether a third offender was involved.
One of the shooters has been identified as Naveed Akram from the south-west Sydney suburb Bonnyrigg.
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon declared the shooting a terrorist attack based on the incident taking place at a religious festival, the types of weapons used and items found at the scene.
“What should have been a night of peace and joy celebrated in that community with families and supporters, has been shattered by this horrifying evil attack,” NSW Premier Chris Minns said.
“Our heart bleeds for Australia’s Jewish community tonight. I can only imagine the pain that they’re feeling right now to see their loved ones killed as they celebrate this ancient holiday.
“It’s the responsibility of Australians to wrap their arms around Australia’s Jewish community and help them get through this incredibly difficult period.”
FULLS TORY
Police scour Bondi Beach crime scene after terrorist attack shooting during Jewish festival (By Millie Roberts, ABC News)
